Caray, Caray!

EPISODE #32 :
* At the convent office, Regina meets with Padre to discuss her inclusion into the convent. She is suffering from a horrible heartbreak and feels dead to the world but alive to God. He gives her the advice that she can’t enter the convent to hide, she has to go live in the real world and find out who she is and what she really wants to be first. She is hurting and crying about Renato loving Aimee and not her. Padre tells her that isn’t a reason to enter the convent and become a nun. He wants her to take off her habits. She can’t do that. He tells her to go ahead, start fresh and become a new and improved “Regina Montes de Oca”.

* Noel shows Rod the latest revenues from the ranch and the contracts turning over ownership to Renato. Rod is pleased with the statements and has no problem with Renato owning the ranch, after all it will stay in the family because of Renato’s wedding to Aimee. Noel mentions Regina’s feelings. Rod doesn’t really want to discuss her, cuts the conversation short and leaves.

* Dr. Pablo is on the street by the carriages. He overhears a conversation by two gentleman. They are discussing a mysterious stranger who sailed into port recently. He flashes back to treating Juan’s wounds in the cave; he is almost convinced that the conversation is about Juan. Dr. Pablo sees Regina and stops her. She is sad; he offers to help.

* Gabe is on the street. He talks with a man as he looks around for Dr. Pablo. Jimena is about 100 steps behind him. She hides her bag and sneaks up behind Gabe. Gabe thinks it’s Estrella but is disappointed when he sees it’s just Jimena. She’s sad by his lack of enthusiasm to see her. Of course, his mood changes drastically when she tells him that tonight at the casino he will see his Estrella. He is so excited by the thought of seeing his "Estrella" again.

* Federico is on the other side of the garden watching Gabe and Jimena, and thought bubbling to himself.

* Juan pratices his own form of jujitsu in his private cave. He sits down and feels his head. He has a fever. He drinks some water and screams. He lays on his grass mat and remembers his dad’s ‘death oath’. He rolls over and calls for his daddy. He mutters to himself as Clemencia enters the cave. She kneels down at his side. He is a scared little boy asking for his mommy. She isn’t his mommy but cares for him just the same. She blames Aimee for what Juan is going through right now.

* Aimee stares as Leona hands her the guest list for the wedding. Leona is illusioned to plan the wedding and hopes Renato and her will be happy together. She finally notices Aimee staring at her, with a frozen expression on her face. Aimee has to snap out of her frozen state to tell Leona that of course she will be happy with Renato then let’s it out that Regina was totally in love with Renato for all the years they were in Europe. Leona is stunned. Eloisa enters and Aimee says she’s there to help with the wedding planning. Aimee excuses herself, she feels faint.

* Regina comes back to the main house at the ranch. Renato won’t let her enter the house until she promises they will meet together later.

* Federico and Renato meet in the office to discuss Federico backing off and not pressuring Regina to marry him. Federico is courteous. Then Renato is curious about Federico’s business or other interests with someone else at the ranch. Federico hints at something with someone. Renato is curious who it is? perhaps Aimee? Federico is offended by the insinuation and leaves.

* Regina meanwhile is in her bedroom, thought bubbling to herself. She is thinking about her conversation with the Padre and his wise advice for her to take off the habits and cloak and reinvent herself (video magic - one minute she has on the habit; the next she is ‘all dolled up’ as a victorian lady and admiring her image in the mirror.)

* General, Admiral and soldiers are pestering and interrogating Pedro, Santos, and the crew on the beach about Juan and his boat. They continue to play clueless to the questions. The troops finally leave. Santos, Pedro and the boy laugh to selves about the secret.

* Noel, Rod, Renato, Aimee and Leona have lunch together. The men start talking about business and about the mysterious boat and captain that sailed into port recently. Aimee is scared. Leona agrees with Rod that the pirates need to be dealt with as such. Aimee thinks they are the enemy. Rod agrees with her. Noel looks around and asks where Regina is? Rosie says she’s in her room. Aimee makes a comment about Regina sinking further and further into craziness. Rod believes it is true. Regina appears and apologizes for being late. Noel and Renato are delighted to see her. Rod wonders about her change in clothes - no habit, does this mean she has reconsidered the marriage proposal? Regina says no, not really. They ask her to help with Aimee and Renato’s wedding plans. Leona and Rod comment.

* Pedro, Santos and the crew visit Juan and Clemencia at the cave. They tell him the news about the soldiers searching for him. Juan takes it under advisement. Gabe enters and says he couldn’t find the doctor in town. Juan says he doesn’t need a doctor anymore. Clemencia asks Gabe for his name - he tells her - she smiles and mentions she knows about “Estrella”. Gabe wonders who told her. She says ‘a little birdie told her.’

* Jimena meanwhile is with Lulu, Fifi and Brigette. The threesome have a plan for Jimena and Gabriel to be together tonight.

* Federico visits Eloisa at the house. They flirt and then kiss briefly before they hear the echoes of Fulgencio’s voice in the hallway. They break it off and separate to different sides of the room. Fulgencio enters the room and tells Eloise to leave so the men can talk business. She leaves. Fulgencio tells Federico that he doesn’t like his wife to be alone with any other men. Federico informs him about observing Gabriel with a gypsy girl in the streets today. Fulgenio is intrigued.

* At the casino, Gabe arrives alone. He is eagerly looking around the room. He finds Marlene. She is happy to see him. She takes him over to a painting at tells her it’s Estrella. He’s confused. She tells him to look closely at the painting and find the mystery in it. He looks up at the eyes and starts talking to it. Estrella’s voice replies back to him. Marlene’s assistant is on stage introducing the main show -- the three ladies (Fifi, Lulu and Brigette) are belly dancing tonight. Rod, Noel and guys are watching intently. Marlene comes over to welcome them and talk. Rod mentions that he won’t lift a finger to help her if there’s any trouble. Raul, Noel and Federico laugh and make jokes about the mysterious captain and ship. Rod isn’t amused and calls the man a coward for not showing his face in town.

* Juan is in his cave - still driving himself crazy with memories of Aimee. He prays for help and salvation - he wants to be able to continue on with his life and his plans and to forget about her. He can’t deceive himself, who he is and what he is.

* Federico, Fulgencio and Noel continue to discuss the ship that sailed into port. Rod makes a comment and then leaves. Raul follows him and has a private conversation - Raul understands Rod’s point of view completely. Brigette (?) has a polite conversation with Rod and walks away. Rod and Raul comment on the beautiful girls. In another part of the room, Federico talks with Fifi (?) and they plan to meet later in a private room. Lulu walks towards Noel - Noel is nervous and stutters - they agree to sit and talk for awhile.

* As Noel holds the chair for Lulu, Fulgencio and Federico excuse themselves for the evening and leave.

* Outside at the carriage, Fulgencio wants to discuss with Federico how to get some money.

* At the cave, Federico and Fulgencio look around and are amazed; they can’t find anyone there. Juan is hiding in a dark tunnel, watching the men, and wondering how they found the cave - he thought it was a secret.

* Renato and Remiglio are out on horseback late at night. They find the shacks but no one around. They decide to call off the search for the night.

* As Renato rides close to the river rapids, he squints through the darkness and sees a man (our Tarzan) on the other side of the river, teetering on the rocks and falling into the river. The man floats downstream.

ADVANCE: The tension, intrigue and risks mount up for Juan and the Montes de Oca family. Clemencia predicts a huge catastrophe may occur that will completely destroy the family.

Labels: salvaje

So gang, we've reached capitulo numero 200. Seems like only yesterday that we began this joyous journey. Let's proceed.

In the barrio patio, Mauricio has come to share good news with Estrella. "You've found Aldo?" Estre is hopeful. No, not that good news, but he has the proof to prove to Moni that he and Estre are innocent of any hanky panky. His cell phone rings. It's the porky detective. He's located Aldo. He's staying in a cabaña in Ajuzco. Now that is very good news. Estre hugs Mao and at just that exact moment (timing is everything) Moni rounds the corner and spots them. Oops. Oops again, because from out of nowhere, a pistol, with Oscar at the other end, cocks and is aimed at our detective's head. This could be a setback for the good guys. Oblivious, Mao follows Estre into her apartment as Moni, her heart in tatters, sadly watches.Coni's having another mother daughter chat with Jaqui. Coni tells her that she'll be needing a new place to live when she returns from Italy since she's selling the house. Jaqui ignores this and brings up Groupo Sermeño. She knows that Mao is back in charge. Coni couldn't care less, she's selling her part to Daddy. Jaqui is aware that she's gathering the money to settle up with Jero. Coni ushers Jaqui and shuts the door. She doesn't look happy.

Back in the Boondocks, Oscar, flanked by his toady Jerónimo, holds the pistol at the head of our chunky detective's head. He wants to know with whom he was talking on the phone. Jero correctly guesses that it was his cousin on the other end. Oscar dismisses a worried Jero, "What are you going to do with him?" and orders the detective back into his car. We barely got to meet this guy, don't even know his name, and now it looks as though he will soon be abruptly departing the show. Dang.

Nieves and Marcos are seated at her table. She no longer looks like a derelict geisha. He invites her to come with him to the reinauguration party at Groupo Sermeño. She eagerly agrees. He will have a surprise for her, a question to ask. She tries to guess but he insists that she wait. As he gets up to leave, she offers her hand which he kisses. Then they playfully rub noses. He leaves, Nieves rejoices with a little victory dance, and Beto emerges looking very un-naco in shirt and tie. She pumps Beto for more information and after her appeal to him as his mom, he confirms her hopes, telling her that yes, "He asked me for your hand." she swoons, he eases her to the bed complaining that she will cause him to have a hernia.

Marcos has yet more business in the 'hood. He drops in on Isabel. As she opens the door, he bursts in and takes a seat. He has heard that the Dr. has told her that she doesn't have long to live. She rightly surmises that this must be good news for everyone. He appeals to her to open her heart and show love for Monita. She rejects this so he dispenses with charm and goes right for the throat. Actually he whispers in her ear, giving us a glimpse of the source of some of Coni's social skills, "Soon you will be dead and I will then have lots of time to get close to Valentina and to undo all this harm you have done. Your life has been useless." At this point (well after a few commercials) Monita comes in and orders him to leave. At this point the snake morphs into a crippled lamb and cowers behind Monita as the angry monkey castigates Marcos. As he leaves, Marcos calmly and warmly tells Moni that he will see her soon and undo the damage Isabel has done. As she slams the door behind him, Issy collapses against the door, this time in genuine tears with the realization that Marcos is right. This scene is uncomfortably satisfying.

In Estre's apartment Mao assures Estre that now he will set everything right. He'll meet with the detective (good luck with that) and get all the details about Aldo and they will reveal the fraud perpetrated by Snake Lady. Mainly, is is essential that Estrella attend the fiesta tomorrow at Groupo Sermeño. Of course she'll be there.

At the Domicile of Doom, Jero's soliloquy is interrupted by Oscar. The robbing an swindling he has no problem with, but Jero feels that the killing was not in the job description. Seeing Jero taking to himself Oscar speculates that Lorenza's insanity is contagious. Jero wants to know what Oscar did with Plump PI. "I took care of him so he won't be opening his mouth again." As he makes himself a drink, hey, don't you think Jero could use one too?, He blames Jero for being careless and warns him that if things go bad, he will be in jail for a long time. Jero tries to reassure him and tells him that he reminded Constanza that it would be healthy for her to give them the money. Oscar reminds Jero that if he betrays him, "You are a dead man." Well, I'm certainly glad that we all understand how things stand.

Looking very cute in a pink nighty, Moni tries to console her mommy. She tells her they will make the most of the time she has left. Isabel(clad in cute brown pajamas dotted with daisies), whining that she doesn't want to die, wants a little more than that. She wants a promise that Moni will not allow Marcos near her once she's dead. Moni objects that she's not good at this hate thing. Marcos words, meanwhile, echo in her ear, "Your life was useless." Sweet dreams, you bitter old biddy.

It's morning on the patio and Estrella is sharing the good news with Paula. Paula notes that Estrella is beginning to show. As they rejoice they are joined by Lobo. Does this guy ever frown? Both are delighted to see him (almost as much as our Julia). Before Estrella gets too excited, Paula reminds her that Lobo is married. "Was," he corrects her. Both ladies express their regrets as each inwardly rejoices and are even happier to learn that he is hoping to stay for a couple of months in the neighborhood.

At breakfast Moni tell Isabel that she bumped into Lobo. "¿Lobo? He didn't bite you?" That's our Isabel, a laugh a minute. Moni tells her that he inspired her boxing, he is very handsome, they have a platonic friendship though they did share a kiss as children. Isabel is underwhelmed. She tells her how he met and married a girl who lived three blocks away and they ended up moving away. "So he's married?" "Nope. Divorced" Issy scowls as who then should appear at the door but Señor Wolf himself. "You look precious!" Mamá does not approve.

More commercials before Moni introduces them. He's delighted. She looks like someone farted. Before they head off to the gym Moni tells Issy that they'll eat together later. Nope. Issy will be gone for today. She must make a trip to Moroleón. After the two bounce out, Isabel grumbles to herself, "One more to keep away from Valentina."

They pass Nieves who is busy at the communal sink. She doesn't look happy to see Moni with Lobo either. She is joined by a perky Estrella who announces that Lobo is moving in. Nieves sees this as an impediment to M&M's already shaky relationship.She thinks that Lobo will influence Moni with sweet talk (engatusar... I really like this word). I think that it's safe to say that we join her in her concern.

Meintras tanto, at the Count's Condo, he tells Nice Nurse that he wants both Sal and Loriloca to remained locked in their rooms. He doesn't want either wandering about. "Don't worry, Licenciado, I'll take care of it." As he is making another drink (Oscar seems to be drinking quite a bit these days) he turns to Aldo, who asks if someone is coming, and orders him to his room as well without answering his question.

Back in his office, Mao informs Gabi that last night, Bocanegra (well at least now we know his name), the detective, called. He tells her that all he knows is that Aldo is in a cabaña in Ajuzco. Much better at algebra than Mao, Gabi calculates that he is in the clutches of Oscar and Jero.

Apparently in no hurry to get to the gym Moni and Lobo pause in he park to catch up on old times and conveniently fill us in on Lobo's troubles. He asks Moni if she remembers Jairo (Isn't he the guy who ran Las Copatonas where they had ladies' mud wrestling in Fuego en la Sangre?). She does. He was the boxing manager with ties to the Mafia (only one?), who's now in jail. (Anyone care to bet on who's gonna be gettin' outa th' slammer very soon?) Well, he ordered Lobo to take dive in the third round of his last fight with Rayo Gonzales, offering him money. "And you told him to shove it?" "No, but he threatened to make my wife disappear." "But you won that fight!" "By a TKO." After the fight he and his wife and got the heck outa Dodge. After several years and separating from his wife, he decided to return to Mexico and sniff around Moni. OK, I added that last bit.

Wow, Beto looks right at home in his new office wearing a starched light blue shirt and solid pink tie (no macho hangups for our Beto). He invites Nieves in. She is impressed and even wants to take his nameplate home. He stops her as she is placing it in her giraffe purse. He shows out by calling for capuchinos calientes, not tepid (tibios), no sugar (he's dieting) for him and his mom. Paula (his secretary) is not there but the lovely Alejandra will bring them in.

Back in the park (don't these kids need to get on to the gym?), Lobo is heart-broken. Well shut my mouth, so is Moni. "Beto?" No a new guy. "So you're single (soltera)? "Right now there's no one else in my life." He tells her that he likes her very much. She shyly blushes. Uh oh!

Back in Beto's office, Nieves is so proud (orgullosa). She gets up and goes around the desk and hugs him. He shoos her back to her chair, puts his feet upon his desk, and then very professionally asks,"How can I help you?" Dang, he's convincing. He tells her for the second time today to get Georgina (apparently giraffe purse) off the desk. She's nervous. He tells her that's natural but once she's married... No, she nervous about the return of Lobo and his interest in Moni. Beto's just happy to learn that Lobo's back in town.

Well, I think we all saw this coming. The Serpent Woman has arrived at the Count's Chalet.She thanks him for shooting her and now she has another job for him. She is dying and after she does, since she doesn't wish for Moni to be happy, "Valentina has to die." Not an unreasonable request for Satan's Spawn to make and who better to ask than Satan's envoy?

Well L&M (not the cigarette, Lobo and Monita) have arrived at the gym and since their little téte a téte has stirred up the hormones, they hop into the ring for a little sparring. They dance a little. He wants to see what she's got. He drops his guard. She demonstrates. After decking him she celebrates, pumping her fist, then drops to her knees. He's impressed. Their eyes lock. He reminds her of that childhood kiss. She remembers. He offers to show her what he's learned. He moves in. She leans forward expectantly. We gasp... time for a commercial break.

She must have thought better of it during the timeout because even though close... no beso for you, Wolfboy! Too soon. Besides, he's her idol. Nope, you guys can be friends and help each other through this tough time. He less than enthusiastic about this proposition, but agrees... "For the moment... friends." Yeah... friends. I bet it's not for nuthin' they call you Lobo. Baaa for now. We've seen your kind before.

Even Oscar is surprised by the coldness with which Isabel is facing her own death and by her desire to off her offspring. After thinking about the beauty of her selfish hate, however, surprise turns to admiration. She wants a potent untraceable poison (veneno). Not even painless, you craven old cow? He agrees.

The welcome home of Lobo continues. Costeño is happy to see him. They share man-talk with Costi telling him that he's found an insatiable woman and needs to get his strength up. Gosh, now who could he talking about? They are interrupted by a strange looking Luchador in a red dog mask, "Phone call for Costeño in Cesar's office, some Ximena." ¿Qué? Hmmm.

Lobo turns his interest back to Moni. He tells her about Jimmy's offer to train a Momia but declined when he discovered that she is training to fight Monita. Well... Moni says, "Why not?" She thinks it's a splendid idea. "She needs all the help she can get." Moni doesn't want an easy fight. "You sure? I guess we'll see each other later." "Let's eat together," Moni suggests. "Say no more!" Cesar approaches, "Hey, that was el Lobo, the world champion welterweight!" Cesar's surprised to see him back in Mexico." "Yes, and he's training la Momia." "¿Qué?" "I asked him to." "¿Qué? ¿Por qué?" "Because she's my sister and I don't want to kill her in the ring." Don Cesar is rendered speechless.

Beto is thrilled with the return of Lobo. They're pals. He expects they can pick up where they left off: cantinas, beer, dominos, cards. Nieves shouts her disapproval. Beto asks her not to shout. He's an executive after all. She's worried about Monita. Beto says that it's not as though Moni is Red Riding Hood and... Nieves thinks that's exactly the case. Moni's mad at Mao because she thinks he betrayed her with her best friend, "And what if Monita ends up telling Lobo?"

Turns out Oscar's favors come with a price tag. He want to be sure he collects. She gives him her word. He offers to show her to the door. Aldo appears. Oscar reminds him that he was to stay in his room and calls him a booger-snot kid (mocoso). "That was Monita's mom, wasn't it?" Aldo asks. Oscar warns him about meddling in his affairs. Kinda mild for Oscar, I'd say.

Hair in French braid, Coni's in Gym Jimmy ready to train. Jimmy tells her that he's lined up one of the best boxers in the world to train her but no go. She tells him that money is not a problem. Jimmy tells her that money is not the problem. As she turns to pout, Lobo swaggers up. Jimmy introduces them. She gives him a look that only our Coni can, "What will it take to change your opinion?" "For me, that smile and those eyes are enough. I came back to accept your offer. From this moment on, I'm your official trainer." He winks. She inspects her acquisition.

Carlos

Labels: gancho

Rafa excitedly takes a call from Magda. She informs him where the cocktail will be tonight and where he will be able to encounter president Lemaitre and his wife. She tells Rafa she hopes she wont regret this. Rafa assures her she won’t. Rafa wants to know how he is going to get in. Magda says that will be his problem. It will take a miracle if he pulls it off.

Marco is on the phone with Ale. He would like to whisk her away for the night. This isn’t going to happen. They need to discuss the wedding plans with Jorge and Tia at Ales’ house. Ale is uncomfortable about taking more money from Marco for the wedding. Ale hangs up and appears very tired. Marco has a worried look on his face and is not happy.

Rafa is trying to get advise on how to enter the cocktail from none other than Ramirez. Ramirez tells him he doesn’t have a chance on getting in. Rafa is determined to get in. Ramirez tells him that getting into the executive club would be a dream come-true for Rosaura Rafa thanks Ramirez for the great advice and heads off to talk with Rosaura. She gives him the gossip and doesn’t miss the opportunity to include her stay in Miami.

Susana tells Rafa Ale is looking for him. Then she encounters Dandy with his finished reports. She wants to pick his marvelous homeopathic brain, in particular about the essential oil he was using on Claudia. He tells her that auto Siglo isn’t the best place to talk and suggests they go some where else. Susana thinks they should go to this great Hindu restaurant. Dandy looks a little nervous about this but agrees.

After Susana leaves the Siglo crew all rush Dandy and wants the scoop. He tells them he has a date with Susana. He asks them for something and they misunderstand and thinks he wants money. What he wants is meat, after all he is going to a vegetarian restaurant.

Vicky calls. She calls to support Rafa and tells him that no matter what time he gets home she will always be there for him and that she will support him in any way possible and in her sweet gentle voice apologizes if she has interrupted him. NOT!!(Just seeing if you are all paying attention). She calls screaming and wants to know when he will be home. She tells him they are having supper with her papa. Rafa tells her that he cant make it. Vicky is not happy. Papa wont be happy.

Rafa tells her his plan to get a new client. Vicky does not believe him. He tries to explain if he can make this sale he can leave Siglo. Vicky screams and hangs up.

Ale encounters Rafa. He tries to explain to her about the cocktail. She chews him out telling him that Fiestas are is specialty . Ale wants him in her office now. Susana asks Ale if she can leave. She tells her to go ahead, she is just going to kill Rafa.

Dandy is waiting for Susana and the Siglo crew is wishing Dandy luck. He goes to give her his arm and she walks off ahead of him. We are off to a good start here Dandy boy.

Ale wants to know about the cocktail. She wants to know if he was invited? She is all excited and wants to see the invitation. Rafa tells her he wasn’t exactly invited. Ale wants to know how in the devil he is going to get in. Rafa tells Ale he doesn’t know how he is going to do this but he will. Ale gives him “productive criticism” and tells him not to act stupid while he is there.

Rafa tells her he off to hunt his lions. He tells her after all he is well dressed, showing off his fine duds that Ale paid for. Ale finally agrees to let him go and wishes him good luck, because if he makes this sale they wont have to deal with each other. They both have a sad face at this thought as Rafa leaves.

Rosaura has great gossip to share with the Siglo crew. Ale is getting married. They get all reminiscing and recall fond memories of the last time they went to Trancazo when Ale was going to get married.(or something like that). We have a little stroll down memory lane. They all decide they had so much fun, why not go and celebrate again.

Dandy and Susana have arrived at the Hindu restaurant. Susana, with grace and ease sits on the floor. Dandy on the other hand is not quite so graceful.


We are at the cocktail and Rafa tries to bluff his way in. He is having no luck despite trying many different tricks. He even tries to attach himself to another couple but this does not work.

He finally leaves the reception area and tries to come up with a plan. He has entered the basement (I think that is where he went) and is mistaken for a worker and is thrown an apron. Could this be Rafas’ ticket. Rafa has made it into the cocktail and is pretending like he belongs there.

Dandy and Susana are enjoying drinks. Well anyway Susana is. Dandy is not having the best time. He complains of his back hurting. Susana goes to help and starts one of her famous massages and cracks his neck. I don’t think Dandy was expecting this and I don’t think it helped.

Marco is showing everyone the wedding plans. He is dressed in full scarf. Ale accuses Marco of smelling of alcohol. He says it is medicine. Rosario wants to know about the honeymoon. Ale says she cant get away from work. She says they could settle for going away Saturday night and returning on Sunday. Rosario says it sounds more like a negotiation agenda then a wedding. Ale is looking over the guest list and realizes Urdiales' name is not on the list. She asks Marco about it and Marco almost coughs up a lung.

Rafa continues his little charade and asks the waiter where the president is. He is mingling like the best of them. He almost gets discovered by the young women from the reception area who would not let him in earlier. Rafa looks for a hiding spot.

Ale is still amazed that Urdiales isn’t on the list. Quick thinking Marco comes up with a great story. He says Urdiales will be out of town. Jorge wants to know if Marcos’ parents are going to be there. Marco looks uncomfortable at this and Ale apologizes that Jorge has forgotten. Jorge wants to know what he has forgotten. Marco is in full lie mode Marco says his mother’s health his poor and dad cant leave her. They have to stay in the US. Marco just coughed up another lung.

Rafa continues his party crashing. He pretends he knows everyone and starts schmoozing He even is able to insinuate himself into a photo. He has discovered that the president hasn’t arrived yet. He hands out his calling cards.

Marco and Ale are discussing where they will be living after the wedding. Ale says of course they will be staying at her house. Marco is not happy with this idea. Ale does not want to live in his apartment and they are not going to discuss it. Besides they don’t have money for another apartment. She tells them when things get better they can make other plans. Than she says when Rafa comes through with what he owes them. This sets Marco off. He tells her not to be so optimistic. Ale says it isn’t optimism. She says today he has risen to the occasion and smiles. Marco is not smiling.


We have a final Vicky call. This time she is crazier than ever. We have a little Sybil going on. Rafa is trying his hardest to continue to blend into the cocktail and converse with nutcase. She finally asks him to sing to her. This calms her down a little. As Rafa is whistling into the phone, the president of Refri is announced and walks past Rafa. This is where we end.

Labels: dinero

Lucas is enchanted with his daughter. The baby was premature but is ok. Marisa and Lucas agree to start over for the sake of the baby. Marisa says that if their relationship is going to work, there can't be any more lies.

Albieri is running around in a panic. Is he thinking of jumping off that bridge or is it just a dramatic shot?

Just as he realizes what would happen if Leo goes to the birthday party, he gets a call from Enrique about the birth of Lucas' baby. He leaves for the hospital.

Of course, he doesn't think to tell Luisa what is going on. Back at the birthday party, she asks Julio if he knows where Albieri went. Julio doesn't. When Dora asks why Albieri left in such a hurry, Luisa lies and says there was an emergency in the clinic. Then she sneaks out herself. Cristina is convinced that the reason Leo didn't come to the birthday party is because he is with another woman.

Leo and Enrique see the baby. They are gowned with booties but no masks. Albieri arrives and congratulates Leo. Leo asks Albieri why he never talks about Diego anymore. He says that it's almost as if Albieri is hiding something. Albieri protests that isn't so. Then Leo suggests that maybe Albieri has forgotten about Diego because he has a new godson.

Said protests to Abdul and Ali that he doesn't want another wife. Abdul suggests that he wait until he sees the woman. Sometimes you don't want to eat until you see food. Ali confesses that if he had it to do it over again, he would only have one wife. Abdul says that he knows some men who seem not to have a wife even though they are married. Everybody looks at Jade and she quietly leaves.

In the kitchen, Nariza is eating and running down Jade and her brother Mohamed. The family of possible wife #2 arrive. Nariza takes the woman, Muna, aside. She says that Said knows how to please a woman. She taught him everything. She says that he likes good food and a clean house. His first wife doesn't do any of those things and that is why he wants another wife to take care of him like she did. When Muna says that she can cook a little, Nariza replies that she will teach Muna all Said's favorite dishes. Finally, she urges Muna to take off her veil and dance provacatively as if for her husband.

Nariza will make sure that Said sees her. Muna obeys but Jade is eager to find out how well her plan is working out. She goes to talk to Muna and when Said sees them together, he realizes what Jade tried to do.

Said is furious that Jade tried to trick him into taking a second wife. She replies that she did it to make him happy. Wife #2 would be company for Jade and be the wife that he always wanted. Said that that she has asked for it and now must accept the consequences. [I thought he meant that he was going to take Muna as a second wife but apparently not.]

Back at Ali's, it appears that Said's sudden disappearance from the party does not augur well for the marriage. Ali is sure that Said does not want to get married again. Ali says that Jade should be careful. She is playing with fire and could end up getting burnt.

Leo goes to a bar.

Cristina is moping around after the party and letting Vicki clean up everything. Her cell rings. It's Leo asking her to come to the bar. She arrives and learns that Lucas' daughter was just born. Leo says that since Diego is dead and Lucas has formed his own family, he realizes that he is all alone. Cristina replies that the isn't alone - he has her. They kiss and all I can think of is that her makeup is going to be all over his face. She really had a lot on.

Luisa finally finds Albieri. He says that he is panicking because it is obvious that Daniel is not Dora's child and he afraid of the consequences if someone finds out what he did. Luisa suggests that people will think that the hospital switched the babies and that wasn't his fault. Albieri is impressed with Luisa's defense of him for personal reasons. He says that he is only concerned about what his error did to Dora. He wishes he could be more like Luisa.

Cristina and Leo end up at what appears to be a hotel. She looks SO much better without that lipstick on.

Passion ensues. Afterwards, Cristina suggests that they get married in Paris like they planned. Leo says that his feelings for her are real but when he is with her he can't help feeling guilty that they were together when Diego was killed. Just when I thought maybe something was going to be resolved in this novela, it falls apart. Cristina is offended and leaves in a huff.

Latifa is very happy when Mohamed tells her that Said isn't taking a second wife. Then Mohamed tells her that he is upset because Adbul has told him that Nariza pretends that they don't exist anymore. Latifa says that what happened wasn't his fault. But when she says that Nariza was selfish, Mohamed is angry. Only he can criticize Nariza. He says that he has written an apology to Nariza and makes Latfia write one too that he dictates.

Jade is sulking around the house. Said shows her a newspaper article about the birth of Lucas' child. Jade tries not to show her distress to Said.

Marisa and the baby come home from the hospital. Marisa, Lucas and Leo all agree to be one big happy family for the baby.

Jade tells Said that if he tried to make her unhappy, it didn't work. Said won't let her go to Ali's house. Jade goes upstairs and suffers. Said is about to go after her when Nariza the witch comes in. She has the letters of apology from Mohamed and Latifa but says she isn't buying. Nariza asks Said what is going on. He says that nothing is going on. Nariza assumes that there is a problem with Jade. Said tells her to stay out his marriage. Nariza doesn't stop. She urges Said to get rid of Jade. When he tells to shut up, Nariza makes an 180 degree turn in her affections and says that Said is dead to her. Only Mohamed respects and loves her.

Julio wants to talk to Albieri about the Dora problem. He says that it is obvious that Daniel is not Dora's son and wonders if the embyros got mixed up. Albieri swears that it wasn't anything he did. Julio replies that however it happened, the wrong embryo got implanted. He wants to do a DNA test on Dora to see if Daniel is her son. Albieri gets that 'deer in the headlights' look.

Albieri tells Julio that he will take all the responsibility for what happened but Julio should just leave the matter alone for the time being. When he is alone, Albieri says that he has to take Daniel far away.

Cristina makes a play for another guy. She says that she wants to married and ask Leo to give her away.

In the ruins, Jade reads the newspaper article about Lucas and suffers.

Marisa [she sure got her figure back quickly!] has found Jade's jade pendant. She thinks it is a present that Lucas got for her.

Lucas is momentarily speechless but he grabs it back and says that it belonged to his mother [it didn't take long for him to start lying again]. He doesn't want her messing with his stuff. Lucas runs off with the pendant. Marisa tells Rosa what happened without describing the necklace. Rosa is surprised. All of Lucas' mother's jewelry should be locked up in Leo's safe.

Julio calls Albieri in and says that he is concerned about the Dora business. If what happened goes public it could hurt the clinic. Dora could even sue the clinic. He says that he understands why Albieri got close to Dora and the boy. Julio doesn't think that is the right approach. He says that Dora has the right to know the truth while she can still have children of her own. Since Albieri hasn't done anything, Julio has asked her to come to the clinic. Albieri is impactado but he doesn't have to wait long - Dora arrives with Luisa behind her and asks what is so important that he has to tell her.

The credits roll.

Labels: clon

Capítulo 31

First a redux: Since Renato can’t read poems of love to Aimee, whose absence from the house Regina is hiding from him, he for some reason feels he needs to read them to Regina. Regi listens as upstairs Clemencia stands guard at the twins’ bedroom door and keeps Leonarda from realizing the truth about Aimee’s being AWOL. Leonarda leaves to prepare a headache cure for the supposedly “suffering” Aimee. Aimee, meanwhile, has run off disguised again as Regi in one of the spare habits from the armoir that curiously nobody bothers to check and account for. Aimee wakes our feverish Juan and tells him it’s really her in disguise. He refuses her attempted kisses and embraces and then tells her again how much he hates and despises her. She cannot understand the change in him and wants a few answers. It’s a wasted effort because Juan continues talking in puzzling riddles about her being his enemy. He tells her that she’s been his enemy since before she was born and if she doesn’t leave him alone he is capable of killing her.

Back at the finca, Regi is overcome with emotion. She can’t listen to anymore poetry and turns away. When Ren asks if she dislikes it, she says it’s only because his devoted love for her sister shows through and it’s just so touching that it’s moved her to tears. (If I didn’t know better I’d say it was tears of boredom. Thank gawd for the reprieve!) He admits he does love her sister deeply, though some might say it’s infantile, but he isn’t ashamed to say it. She says it’s not infantile at all, but rather praiseworthy and admirable. Renato comments that although Regi’s mouth says one thing, her eyes say another. (What a dolt! Let it filter through the few brain cells you can claim, Renato, and maybe you’ll eventually figure it out.) Regi stares soulfully back at him.

Back at the cave, Aimee cannot understand why Juan has turned so hostile. Why would he want to hurt her, she asks. She’s done nothing to him. Her only crime has been to adore him and give herself over to him heart and soul. When this doesn’t persuade him she says Juan might as well go ahead and kill her then, because she’d prefer that to being apart from him. Juan doesn’t react and Aimee finally feels she’s had enough of groveling and pleading. She tells him that two can play that game and leaves.

Meanwhile, Ren professes his brotherly love for Regi and tries cheering her up by telling her there’s someone who soon will be coming to court her. [acercarse = to get close, to approach] Regi thinks there’s nobody else she wants as a suitor except Renato. She excuses herself and goes upstairs. Leona comes back with the headache potion and insists on going in to give it to Aimee herself. Rodrigo walks up saying he needs to talk to her immediately. She is forced to give the medicine to Clemencia who breathes a secret sigh of relief.

Regi meets Leona and Rod on the stairs on their way down to the study. He’s still angry with Regi and says they’re going to talk later. Regi says fine and walks off. Leona tells Rod she thinks Regi might have the same crazy genes as Maria del Rosario. Rod isn’t quite that gullible. He figures it’s more her rebellious attitude and says he’s tired of putting up with it. Ren runs into the two of them and wants to discuss something with Rod, so the three head to the study together.

Upstairs, Regina tells Clemencia that she wants to go back to the convent. It’s just too painful listening to Renato constantly speaking about how much he loves Aimee. (Can’t say as I blame her.) It infuriates her that her sister is only playing with Ren. Clemencia asks if she knows who Aimee’s been seeing every night. Regi is certain it’s been Juan and says she’s tired of having to lie to Renato for her sister all the time. She’s ready to shout out the truth to everyone at the top of her lungs and let Aimee pay the piper. Clemencia, fearing the worst if this happens, talks Regi out of it and then worriedly thinks to herself that the mystery man Aimee’s been seeing has to be MdR’s Juan.

Down in the study, Renato mentions to Rod that Dr. Pablo wants permission to court Regi. Rod is totally opposed. “He can only continue coming here in his capacity as doctor, nothing else! Regina is engaged to Federico and that’s that.” Ren can’t understand why his Tio is condemning Regi to a failed relationship with the likes of Feddy. Pablo Miranda is a good man, he says, and comes from a good family almost equal to Feddy’s in social standing. Leonarda defends Rod’s decision and says as her father he knows best. Rod tells Renato that compared to the illustrious family Feddy’s from, Pablo is a nobody. Leona adds that letting Regi have another suitor would only encourage her rebellious attitude. Ren says he wants Regi to be happy and Feddy ain’t cuttin’ it. Rod tells him to listen to his mother and butt out. He’s engaged to Aimee and she is Ren’s only concern –or should be. Ren gives in and leaves.

Once Renato is gone, Rod reminds Leonarda that Dr. Pablo Miranda is the nephew of the doctor who attended MdR when her bastard was born—the one that they murdered to keep quiet. Rod warns her that they cannot risk anyone from that family getting close to theirs or they risk them some day finding out what really happened. Leona agrees and remembers the night she lied to MdR about her baby being dead and how Rod rigged the doctor’s coach so the wheel would fly off and he’d be killed.

Rosenda knocks on the study door and asks permission to go out for a while. Leona rudely tells her to stop bothering her. She and Don Rod are in an important discussion and they don’t want anybody interrupting them! Leona slams the door in Rosenda’s face. Rod says Rosenda is good at knowing what everyone around there is up to. He remembers her father, he says, but he doesn’t know who her mother was. Leona says it was some inconsequential servant of theirs, some whore who just up and left suddenly one night. Rod then thinks to himself he remembers her now and that the woman stole his gold coins. He asks Leona if she heard anything of her since. Leona says no, but it’s certain she ended up in the gutter or whoring [la mala vida = evil life] somewhere. Rod agrees and then changes the subject to how the preparations for Aimee’s wedding are coming along since now it’s only a week away. He wants it to be worthy of the Montes de Oca name. Leona promises he won’t be disappointed.

Aimee gets back from the beach and worries about being discovered if she goes in the front door since people are not in bed yet. She decides to climb in through her window instead.

Upstairs in the bedroom Regi kneels to pray desperately for help with her emotions. Clemencia tells her to stop with the hysterics because she’ll wreck her health. Regi says her health is already ruined. Her nerves are so frayed she actually thinks she’s gone crazy just like Aimee’s said. Just then Aimee enters from the balcony window dressed in one of Regi’s habits. Regi sees her and realizes her suspicions were correct all along and that she wasn’t going nuts after all. “Why are you dressed in my habit? Where were you?” Aimee stares defiantly back at her twin. “—Why ask? You know exactly where!” “--With that savage! Not only were you continuing to lie to me, but you tried to make me think I was going crazy!” Regi is ready to jump her till Clemencia pulls her away. “So it was you that Renato saw going to the beach near the caves! You were dressed like me!” Aimee admits it and adds a lot of good it did her, too, cuz Juan just dumped her. Aimee begins to cry. (Viewerville’s compassion meter is at -10 and falling.)

Regi doesn’t believe that for a minute. Aimee says it’s all true and he just threw her away; he never wants to see her again! Clemencia tells her to get over it because Renato has been asking for her all evening and they’ve had to lie to him for her. Aimee throws a tantrum and says she could care less. Without Juan nothing matters anymore! Not even Renato! This gets Regi going and she tells her sister to remember he’s engaged to her and they’re getting married in less than a week. Regi, on a tear here, actually walks over to Aimee and slaps her a surprising (and most satisfying) good one across the chops. (Ten points, team Regi!) A most cathartic caterwauling then ensues. Clemencia grabs Aimee to keep her away from Regi. (Clem, couldn’t you have waited a minute or two longer?) Aimee says she curses the day she agreed to marry Ren. Regi says too late for that because if she doesn’t go through with it Regi will tell the whole world the truth about how she’s been running around behind Renato’s back with the man who hates their father. “He’s going to kill you!” (Is that a hint of a malicious sparkle in Regi’s eyes?)

Clemencia jumps in with her two cents worth and tells Regi not to do it because the family doesn’t need any more trouble. Aimee threatens that if Regi does that then she’ll shout to the whole world about Regi’s “impossible love” for Renato. Regi says it doesn’t bother her a bit. Bring it on! She’s no longer afraid of the truth and she’s got nothing to lose. On the other hand, Aimee’s prospects will fall faster than a lead balloon. Clemencia tells them both to pipe down before the whole house hears them. Regi says fine with her. Let them all in on it. They’ll both be sent to the convent for life. She’d love it, but Aimee will die from the shame and misery of being locked up. Aimee swears she’d kill herself first. (No loss there.) Clemencia has had enough and tells them she’s not interested in seeing another tragedy take place. Both of them are going to calm down and keep their mouths shut! They are not to say a word to anybody about what happened tonight. They’ll all sleep on it and afterwards it’s up to God.

That night Remigio visits Juan and tells him the robbery and his sharing of the goods is all the people are talking about. Juan asks if the people are upset with him and will accuse him of anything. Remi says of course not. The rich would because they are greedy and never want anyone messing with their stuff, even if it would be used to help the neediest. Remi thanks Juan for opening up the peone’s eyes and helping them fight the good fight. “I knew that day in the forest when I found you that you were different and that your mission in life was something other.”

Rosenda decides to make trouble for the other young servant in the house (Celestina?). She walks into the kitchen as the girl is washing the floor and purposely tracks mud on it with her boots. Celestina gets in Rosenda’s face and gripes. Rosenda says talk to the hand, preferably the ringed one, cuz she could care less being that she’s Sra. Leonarda’s protégée; she doesn’t do floors anymore. Celestina says whatever she did to gain the Sra.’s confidence it wasn’t anything good. They show their claws at each other and Celestina tells Rosenda to be careful because the higher you rise the harder and farther you fall. Rosenda brags that she’s got Leonarda eating out of the palm of her hand and is almost a part of the family now. Celestina says maybe now, but as soon as she becomes a big enough nuisance she’ll throw her out in the street.

Rosenda gets ready to take a dinner tray to Arcadio and Celestina realizes there’s something fishy there, too. “He’s the one giving you gifts. Now I understand! It wasn’t for free either! You’re nothing more than a whore the same as your mother who left you because you didn’t matter to her!” Rosenda gets physical and tells her to shut up. Nobody’s allowed to talk about her mama like that.

Back at the cave, Juan tells Remi that the guys come visit him from time to time even though he tells them they shouldn’t. He’d rather not raise suspicions. Remi says well, he’s spending the night there with him and keeping him company anyway. Juan says he’d rather be alone. Remi suspects something’s up and asks him what’s the matter. Juan finally breaks down and tells him that he’s broken it off with Aimee and she’s sworn never to see him again. If they do see each other again it will be as sworn lifelong enemies.

Rosenda brings dinner down to Arcadio and starts to tell him the family gossip. The Orca tells her the only one he wants to know about it Leonarda. Rosenda makes him jealous by playing up the meeting Leona and Rod were having in the study and emphasizing that she told her they didn’t want to be disturbed for any reason. Orca’s left to make his own conclusions. He swears that one day he’ll make Rodrigo Montes de Oca disappear off the face of the earth.

Rod tells Leona that somebody robbed his ship and he took a huge financial hit. The money doesn’t matter as much as the fact that they dared to mess with him. Nobody was supposed to know the ship was coming. He says that the sheriff believes one of his own crew betrayed him. He swears he’ll find and squelch the thieves. Leona thanks him for taking her into his confidence and swears she’d never betray him like that, not even for Renato. Rod says he knows that and is grateful. She says she doesn’t know what would become of her if the savage that insulted him the other day did something to Rod. Rod says he’s not finished with that guy and will be looking for him to give him what he deserves. The honor of the Montes de Oca’s is involved. The man will pay dearly for his impudence. Leona says if that’s what he wants most then she’ll help him plan something that will teach him a lesson he’ll never forget. Rod and she toast on that. “Leonarda, what would I ever do without you?”

The next morning Regi and Noel run in to each other in the foyer. (What’s with the bad dye job? It’s like he ran into a case of liquid shoe polish.) Noel asks where she’s off to this early in the morning. Regi says she’s going to the convent for confession. He notices how sad she is and offers to help if he can. She tells him that nobody can help her. He knows about her secret love for Renato, and as much as she’s tried she simply cannot manage to forget him. Noel says he’s worried about her health and says it bothers him to see her defy her father. He couldn’t stand seeing Rod hit her the way he did. Regi says she wasn’t defying her father, but there were so many things going on that she just couldn’t stay quiet about them.

Noel then mentions what Renato told him about seeing her going toward the beach alone the other night, as if she were fleeing. Regi tries denying that it was her but he won’t let her off the hook. He asks what she’s been hiding. She says that she cannot say anything to anyone, despite her trust in him, because she doesn’t want to hurt anybody else. She promises that it won’t happen again. Noel doesn’t understand but decides to let it go.

Regi returns to the priest at the convent and begs to be let back in as a novitiate. She feels that only by returning there can she save her soul from temptation. The padre says she can do that anywhere and doesn’t need the convent. She needs to escape from the world, she says, and admits that she cannot get over the love she feels for Renato. Whatever she’s done it’s been a futile waste of time and she feels it’s beaten her. Her jealousy is a daily torture and has caused serious quarrels with her sister.

At the same time, Clemencia is trying to get Aimee to see reason and take responsibility. The family’s good name is at risk. Aimee says she’s already told her that she and the man have broken it off, so to leave her alone. Clemencia asks her to tell her where they used to meet. Aimee says at the Caves of Santa Cruz.

Speaking of caves, Juan is limping in pain and cursing the name of Rodrigo Montes de Oca. He remembers Aimee’s threats to treat him with the same coldness and cruelty as he’s treated her. “Aimee, Aimee. If you could only know! If you only knew the truth!”

Back at the convent the priest rejects Regi’s reasons for wanting to become a nun. He sympathetically tells her she’s been using the convent as a refuge from the world without truly hearing a call from God. God has given her a test and so far she hasn’t passed it. She says she simply can’t cope any longer having to listen to Ren speak of his adoring love for Aimee. The Padre refuses to allow her back. He says she should go home and pray, but also she must stop wearing her habit. Regi objects, saying her habit gives her strength. The priest says no, she’s only using it as a shield from whatever she’s hiding from. From today on she will stop being Sister Regina and will again be Regina Montes de Oca.

Labels: salvaje

Permalink posted by Jardinera654 @ 3:21 PM 58 comments

Alternate Title: Fresh meat
Second Alternate: Chucky’s Grandma!

The two fighters slowly circle the ring, eyeing each other warily, looking for a weakness. One jabs, the other feints. Fists shoot out quickly, and are quickly withdrawn. Occasionally, a punch lands, and bit by bit, some damage is done. Little bruises appear. Breathing becomes labored, but still the jabbing continues. The craftier fighter knows what she’s doing – setting everything up, wearing down her opponent, waiting for just the right moment to unleash everything she’s got. But not yet.

And that’s how our show is getting. Everyone’s dancing around, jockeying for position, setting things up, everybody has a plan. Jero dreams of outsmarting Oscar, Gabi hopes to outmart Jero to find Oscar. Sal and Aldo are probing for any weakness in the tight security of the mansion. Oscar is readying his final solution. Marcos has plans for Nieves, Coni seems to have something up her sleeve (or would, if her outfit weren’t sleeveless). And Mau, at long last, seems to have an ace in the hole, with that recording of Isabel. But he, too, is biding his time, waiting for just the right moment to strike!

We begin tonight’s jabbing with some furious punches by Moni, working on the hanging punching bag. She thinks of Mau’s sweet promises, then the “reality”, screaming to herself, liar, liar, liar!, breaking down into tears.

At Oscar’s Hodge Podge Hunting Lodge, apparently his hot game of solitaire wasn’t enough, so he calls Lorenza over for a little personal sadism. He teases her with the promise of a second wedding with Salvador, asks her to show us how she’ll dance at the reception, and when Lori hops happily, he yells “Watch Out! Here Comes Gabriela to steal Sal!”, which causes Lori to go loca. Oscar sickly snickers, he gets OFF on this kind of thing. Aldo doesn’t think it’s funny, but Oscar cares not one bit what Aldo thinks, and goes out to get some fresh air. Lori cradles Sal’s head, asks if he’s thinking of her, but Sal is actually lost in his reminiscences of Gabi, replaying in his mind the marriage proposal, when he pretended to complain of something pressing against his chest, which turned out to be a engagement ring! Out loud, he says “My love, I love you so much.” Lori hears these words and is overjoyed, “Honey, I love you MORE”.

Gabi meets Jerry in a restaurant. She wants the information on Oscar’s whereabouts before paying any money. He wasn’t born yesterday, wants the money first. Gabi’s firm, she insists Oscar has to be behind bars (tras las rejas) first, she’s not going to lose her savings based on false information. But she’s a woman of her word, Jero can trust her. Fine, says Jero, I’ll deliver Oscar to the police first. But if you leave me whistling in the breeze (chiflando en la loma, literally, whistling on the hill), I’ve got an ace up my sleeve, and you’ll be sorry. Gabi thanks Jerry for his time, says they’ll meet again when Oscar’s in jail, confidently gets up, and sticks Jerry with the bill.

At Grupo Sermeño, Pau’s hiding in the coffee room. She doesn’t want to run into Cris. Xime chides her, you can’t keep hiding from the police. Pau disagrees, if Oscar can do it, why can’t she? Okay fine, says Xime, but we have to plan the company’s reopening party. Pau’s already booked the room, arranged the food, all she needs is some music. Xime’s on top of that. She’ll ask that nice boy Luisa knows (Andrés). I’m not sure Xime’s in tune with the cacophony this could cause, but for now, all’s harmonious.

Tepid Tano enters the vecindad, hands in pockets, approaching Estrella to give her some completely undesired and unwarranted advice. He’d like to believe Estre, but gee, those photos don’t lie, and she knows how impulsive she is, right?

He helpfully reminds her that one day they were “just talking”, and remember how that ended up? We go to commercial to spare us from more of Tano’s tactfulness.

Beto bops into the breakroom, dressed for success with his blue pressed shirt and shiny orange tie, and is happy to hear that Pau and Xime are planning the office party. He’s got some ideas, too. How about a magician? With doves and a busty (pechugona) assistente, of course. Xime thinks that sounds like something you’d have at a children’s party. Well, quips Beto, depends on how busty the assistente is. Or how ‘bout a table, with several sexy women dancing on it, you gals don’t understand the business world, but this is what businessmen like, you know, the Japanese, the Swiss? Xime and Pau think this would be too “complicated”. Undeterred, Beto gives his menu suggestions, sopes, tostadas de patas y memelas (pig’s feet sandwiches and mexican pizza type snacks, yum), but Xime’s not impressed with his selection. She and Pau say they’ve already lined up the food, and FORGET that table dance. Beto pulls rank, I’m the boss, you have to do what I say. Xime smiles weakly, you know, that MAGICIAN wasn’t such a bad idea…..

Tano’s still at it. Estre’s distressed he doesn’t believe her, and he should know that Mau would never do this. Ah, says Tano, but he’s just a man, and you know how to provoke men. Estre swears she’ll clear things up, the whole thing was Isabel’s fault, she put Mau and her to sleep to trap them. But the worst part was that Aldo saw them, got really mad at his Dad, and now he’s gone. She’s worried about him, and hopes one day, she can clear things up with him too. Tano not too convincingly agrees.

The nurse asks Lori to help her in the kitchen, allowing Aldo to pow-wow with Sal. Sal says they have to escape soon, but Aldo thinks it’s won’t be easy to get past those guards. Sal misses Gabriela, her smile, her humanity, her beauty, her integrity. He can’t stand that she’s suffering, thinking he’s dead. But he’s a bit worried that she found someone else. Aldo reassures him that won’t happen, Gabi cares the world for him. But he, Aldo, has lost everything. Sal still thinks there’s an explanation for what Aldo saw, but even assuming it was all true, Aldo has to avoid the easy way out (drugs), he has to overcome this. And Sal will be there to give his total support. He extends his hand in friendship and solidarity, and Aldo clasps it. At least SOMEONE’s on his side.

Ahah! Mauricio’s (somewhat shlubby) detective is working for Gabi, too! He’s trailing Jerry’s car, talking through his earpiece, as Gabi (having called him from the restaurant) tells him she’s not falling for Jerry’s tricks, keep her posted on where he goes, maybe he’ll lead them to Oscar. Jerry’s first stop – Gym Jimmy, to give Coni some verbal venom. Pudgy watches Jerry enter.
Inside, Coni’s enthusiasm is flagging. It was much more fun training with Beto than with Jimmy. She’s whining as Jimmy keeps urging her to train harder. Enter Jero, who remarks how much he likes seeing Coni all sweaty, reminds him of some good times they had. Shut up, pig, is her reply. Jerry tells her time is running out for the money she owes him and Oscar. If she doesn’t deliver, she’ll be defending herself in prison. So keep training with your little punches, bites, scratches, you’re SOOO scary, he says sarcastically. As he leaves smirking, Coni’s enraged.

Knock, knock on an orange door, and Estrella’s happy to see that Luisa and Dani have come to visit. Actually, Dani’ll play with the kids outside, while Luisa talks with Estre. She’s tired of being treated like a kid, and since her Dad won’t tell her, Estrella has to. Where’s Waldo? (sorry, I mean Aldo).

Ivan’s tackling a critical photocopying job when who should enter but Alejandra, the new, cute secretary. Filling out the standard uniform rather nicely, she informs Ivan that she’s a copy-making experta. In fact, in the office where she worked in Guadalajara, she was in CHARGE of the copy machine. As she takes the sheets of paper and deftly presses “start”, Ivan seems mightily impressed with her “qualifications”. Ale just got to the DF, doesn’t really have any friends. Well, Ivan will be happy to be her cuate. Ale flashes her million dollar smile, and asks if Ivan wants to go out to lunch. Sure, he says, there’s a fast food (comida corrida) place right around the corner that’s pretty good. Then let’s go, she says. First he has to put the copies in order (I think she forgot to press “collate”). The two of them collate manually. Maybe a little TOO manually.


Remember back at the start of this recap, with Moni punching? Well, she’s still at it, hands aching, still trying to forget, when up from behind her comes a smiling, hot young guy in a muscle tee, asking if he can help. She turns around, and we pan right up his ripped body to a handsome, beaming face. It’s her old pal El Lobo (the wolf), a famous boxing buddy, back in town.


Jerry gets back in his sportscar, and Pudgy PI resumes the chase.

Moni and Lobo haven’t seen each other in years, but both think the other hasn’t changed a bit, and looks super good. Moni’s grinning more than we’ve seen in months. She’s been following Lobo’s career, and knows he won the “world championship” in Chicago (yes, Moni’s only a national champion, but this guy’s the world champ, interesting how they don’t seem to have any money). Moni asks if Lobo’s still married, but conveniently (for our story) he just got divorced a few months ago, his ex is in Chicago, so he decided to return to Mexico. Does she still live in the vecindad? Yeah, well she hasn’t won the lottery, so she does. But she found her Mom! He’s happy, and they agree to meet for coffee later. Our guapatón saunters out as Moni’s eyes twinkle at this new wrinkle in her life.

Estrella tells Luisa she really doesn’t know where Aldo is. Luisa is worried, and complains that she thought once Mau got custody, everything would be better, but everything’s gone wrong. Estrella assures her that things will work out. Everything will be fine, Luisa.

Well, maybe not everything. Ivan and Alejandra are having a little bite to eat in the restaurant near the office (actually, only he’s eating, though she’s eating him up with her eyes). She needs someone to show her around, and he says he knows all about how things work at Grupo Sermeño. She tells how when she saw him she told herself he was for her. Huh? Well, she covers, she means he just has a good vibe, they’ll get along great, she hopes there won’t be any problem with his, ummm, novia? No way, he says. So you have a girlfriend? Yep, and she’s great, says Ivan, I really care a lot for her. Ale’s not surprised, with how handsome he is, girls must be falling all over him. Ivan is totally lapping this up, and asks if Ale has a guy. Nah, she’s single, but totally open to anything life has to offer. Woohooo!

It’s also lunchtime in the vecindad, and Beto has invited Marcos for a little home cooking. Striding into his place, he calls for his Mom, but Nieves wasn’t quite expecting him, and is wearing a pink robe, a face covered in white coldcream, and huge rollers (tubos)! Beto screams “Chucky’s grandma!” Nieves then realizes that Marcos is there, and scurries mortified behind the curtain of her bedroom. Marcos chuckles, then reassures her that he’s fine with her look, in fact she’s beautiful like this. He loves her, and this is part of her charm. Nieves comes out, primps a bit, admits women have to do this, to make themselves pretty for their men.


Coni is now jumping rope (saltando la cuerda), and doing a fantastic job of it, I might add, crossing her arms, looking very agile. Jimmy tosses her a bottle of water, which she easily snatches out of the air without even looking. I’m impressed. Jimmy says he has a surprise for her, someone who can help her even more with her training.

Beto wonders if Nieves has milanesas ready to eat, and of course she does. He goes outside to wash his hands. Nieves, in her wild white faced clown look, smilingly tells Marcos how the three of them are almost like a little family. He likes this, too. But how’s she been? Well, a bit sad, what with Moni rejecting her. And all due to Isabel! Marcos assures her that very soon Isabel won’t be able to hurt them anymore, everything will work out.

Coni’s finished HER workout, her whole body hurts, as she walks right into hunky Lobo! Her vision temporarily blurred, she looks up at this vision of manliness, and likes what she sees!


He extends a wonderfully muscled arm to help her up,


and asks if she’s okay. She is, he says nice meeting you, and walks past. She sneaks a peek at his butt. This is getting interesting!

Beto’s back, with clean hands, fiery hunger, and growling tummy. Now it’s Marcos’s turn to wash his hands, and he goes dutifully out. Immediately Nieves begs Beto to set the table, as she has to get this cream off her face and get fixed up pronto. Beto agrees, it’s not Halloween, Ma.

Jimmy and Lobo meet and hug. It’s been years. Lobo asks how are Jimmy’s kids? Fine, but much bigger. Well, you know why I had to leave, says Lobo. Right, replies Jimmy, you think they’re still searching for you? He doesn’t know, but if he has to, he’ll face his past. So what brings you to town, why did you leave Chicago, since you’re the world champion? Well, my wife left me, and I couldn’t stay there. Sorry about that, says Jimmy. But I’ve got a job for you. Train this woman, called La Momia, in boxing. She was just here. You mean that tall, thin, muy guapa chick? You got it. Lobo can’t believe she’s a boxer. Jimmy admits she’s not that good, but she’s got a big fight coming up, and needs help. Who with? La Monita. Ooops, problem. Lobo is buddies with Moni, no way can he train someone to fight against her.

Our “trainee” is standing, arm languidly over her head, head cocked, shades in place outside Moni’s gym.

Out comes Moni, and the sparks fly. Moni spits out that she didn’t want to see Coni until the fight. Well, shoots back Coni, one thing is what you want, and then there’s what I decide. I couldn’t resist seeing you suffer. Mauricio did the same thing to you he did to me, cheat, but for you it was with your best friend, another slut like you. I continue to hate you with every fiber of my being. I don’t hate you, replies Moni, I pity you. Coni smiles, puts her sunglasses back on, and leaves. Moni thinks to herself, her world will come crashing down when she finds out that we’re sisters.

Jimmy says he’s always counted on Lobo, and offers him whatever money he wants to train Coni, but Lobo won’t do it, he and Moni are friends, and training her opponent is not open for discussion. Jimmy accepts this, says it’s good to see Lobo anyway, and Lobo had better watch his back while he’s here, Jimmy will also warn him if he hears anything bad (maybe Jimmy will do just the opposite, since Lobo’s got something to hide). Lobo gets a dreamy look on his face. He just can’t wait to see those two beauties fight in the ring. Neither can I!

Costeño’s now giving Jacqui a foot massage, while she’s on the phone with Katia. Seems Kat’s a bit lonely in that school in Italy, and Jacqui may go pay her a visit. She asks Costi if he knows Rome. Sure, it’s a barrio (colonia) just across town, he can take her if she likes. Ay, how naco you are she says, I’m speaking of Rome, Italy, it’s on another continent. Ah, says Costi, I’ve never been past Metepec (which is less than 100 miles from Mexico City, where they are).

Jacqui loves the simplicity of Costi’s roots, his social class, growing up happy without ever having traveled. But you know what? You keep showing me heaven (with this foot massage), and I’ll show you the world. Want to come with me to Italy?

Enter Coni, who’s disgusted that these two are still stuck together like dogs. Well, Jacqui needs to have her body stuck to Costi’s 24 hours a day, she deserves this “rest”. Coni’s going to bed, SHE’s the one who needs rest, after all that training. As she leaves, Jacqui asks Costi if he’s ever heard of gondolas, as their cares drift away….

Night falls, the moon rises, and Jerry’s car has arrived at the Mysterious Mansion of Madness, closely followed by Pudgy PI in patient pursuit. He sees Jerry enter after greeting the burly bruiser guarding the oaken entrance.

Costi has gone home, and Jacqui tells Coni about the phone call with Katia, and how Jaqui may go and visit. Well why not just go stay there for life, says Coni, this is stupendous news, and if your plane goes down in the middle of the ocean, even better! Jaqui opines that Coni’s “negative energy” doesn’t seem to be making her happy. Well, says Coni flippantly, old habits (mañas) are hard to break. Speaking of old habits, adds Jacqui, I heard you’re selling the lingerie boutique. Well, right, Mom, I don’t have time for it these days, with my boxing training. Ah, you don’t fool me, dear. You need the money to pay Jerónimo and Oscar, right?

Cut to the Dark Domain of Doom, as Pudgy PI watches Aldo try to leave for a walk. The guards firmly push him back inside. But Pudgy saw it.

Mau comes to the vecindad to talk to Estrella, who is very worried about people seeing them together, getting the wrong idea. Don’t worry, he says, they didn’t do anything, so they have nothing to hide. Besides, he has good news. He finally has the proof of what Isabel did, and when Moni sees it, she’ll finally forgive them. Mau’s cell rings, and Pudgy found Aldo! Mau tells Estre, and they hug warmly,

joyful at last, all their problems are solved. Of course, at this precise moment, Moni enters the neighborhood, sees her ex-amiga hugging her ex-novio, and now she KNOWS she was betrayed!



Previews: Things heat up between El Lobo and La Monita, but Hissabel tells Oscar she wants Valentina to die!

Vocabulario:

Tras las rejas – behind bars
Chiflando en la loma – whistling in the breeze, whistling Dixie, literally whistling on the hill
Comida corrida – fast food (corrida literally means straight or continuous)
Tubos – rollers, curlers, also means tubes or pipes
Saltando la cuerda – jumping rope
Colonia – a neighborhood, also means a colony, and also is the word for cologne
Mañas – old habits, in the singular, maña means cunning, guile or skill

Labels: gancho