Caray, Caray!

We start off with Mili being left alone in charge of the house. As we already know, Damien has locked Regina in her room so he can attack Mili. This scene goes on way longer than I can stomach, and I will not recap the dialog. Fortunately, Connie comes in and saves the day. He punches Damien (yay!) and hugs Mili. He says "don't worry, hija (daughter)--nothing will happen to you." He also calls her "mi vida," or my life. At this point, Mili and Damien must think he is using the word hija figuratively.

Andrea is over at the construction site looking for Alex. One of the workers who obviously was not enlisted in keeping up the fiction that Andrea is still engaged to Alex tells her that Alex was just there with his girlfriend. Andrea is mystified/peeved.

Granny is trying to get out of the room. Mili comes in, and is upset and wearing a torn dress. At first, she will not reveal all to Granny.

Connie tells Damien off, but obviously leaves out the real reason. He says Damien should stay away from Mili because she's young. Damien counters with "since when do you care? You've always liked the young ones." Connie tells him that he won't tolerate this behavior in his house--or Damien will get it in the back, like the coward he is. Damien reminds Connie that Connie wants to be a "diputado," or whatever that office is he's running for. He accuses him of wanting to avoid scandal for political reasons. Damien is right, but that still doesn't make him any less of a creep. So far he's number one in the creepstakes for this show, with Andrea a close second.

Hugo and Karla are in the cemetery. Hugo is crying at his dead girlfriend's (or mother's) grave. Karla is preening in the background. He thanks Karla for coming with him, then tells her that they can't continue their relationship. She was just a quickie because he was without a woman for so long. What a guy. Karla seems to take this in stride. As best as I can tell, she congratulates him on not being fixated on seducing the servants the way his rapscallion of a father is.

Horacio, Socorro and Lina are out for a day of fun. I don't know what's funnier here--Horacio's Farmer Greenjeans getup or Socorro's gigantic burrito on a stick. She's eating a container of fruit while trying to hold on to the giant burrito. Lina spots a street fortune teller and sits down for a reading. He tells her that she likes a guy who is very shy, and she'll have to make the first move.

Mili has now spilled the beans to Granny about Damien. The best thing, she reminds Regina, is that her son rescued her.

Val and Morgan come to the office for some reason, and they find Luciana there, riproaring drunk. The manage to get her to leave and they will drive her home.

Granny goes right to Connie to read him the riot act. He has to rein in his brother-in-law. Connie says he's got it under control. Now Connie asks Granny what she feels for Mili. Granny says she makes her feel so good--like she's always known her. Connie says he understands. Granny adds that she's like the granddaughter I never had. But what about Val? Connie asks. (You mean that empty-headed Valley-girl?) Well, she's altanera (can't find a definition), says Granny. She's your wife's daughter. She's all right--but Mili is different. Connie agrees. Regina reminds him again that he must curb his brother-in-law, because the apple doesn't fall far from the tree. But Damien controls a fifth of the company, so that is a problem.

Alex and Mili now grin foolishly at each other in the kitchen while pretending not to be novios.
Andrea interrupts their little tete a tete, wanting to know who that construction guy was talking about this morning. Alex tries to cover up, but Andrea is having none of it. Is it this little barbacara (also can't find a definition, but it must be a little like igualada, chamagusa, or any of those other insults we've heard before).

Mili now catches Karla and Hugo together. She tells Hugo that Karla can't be trusted. He says, no the one you can't trust is Alex.

Andrea and Alex have a drink. She wants to start planning the wedding. Braulio comes in with Luciana and Val. Luciana is really plastered. She kisses her baby Alex and says she's drinking so much in preparation for being the first lady. Braulio says he's taking her upstairs for her own good.

In the kitchen, everyone rehashes.

Valley Girl tells Andrea and Alex that she likes this guy who thinks she is the secretary. Who is it--Bobby? They laugh at how boring he is --more boring than reading the dictionary. Well, says, Val, at least he's not as boring as reading the phone directory. Val goes up to bed, and Andrea wants to continue having one of those talks with Alex.

Back in the kitchen, Alex fake scolds Mili about how this is the last time he will iron one of his own "calzoncillo" (anyone?). Karla joins in, telling Mili that she has to iron in this house if she wants to survive.

Karla tells Hugo that Mili is with Alex. Hugo furiously gets his Pandroso disguise ready.

Braulio is taking Luciana to the office. Valley girl is there, preparing to go out with Sergio.

Alex and Mili are out in the yard, when Pandroso confronts them and punches Alex in the side, right where he had that "severe" wound the other day. Ouch! Alex punches back, and miraculously strikes Pandroso is just the right way, so as to remove his fake beard! Everyone is impactados. Hugo tells Alex that it's really Alex's fault that Carmen died.

Meanwhile, Connie is threatening Andrea that if she marries Alex she'll get nothing, because he'll leave the money to Val and his other bastard child. Luciana is overhearing this conversation. Why don't you come back to me, he offers--you'll have your apartment and everything. You know you make me crazy, he adds. They kiss. Luciana storms in!

Luciana chews out her husband. Connie just lets loose with one of his evil laughs.

Socorro now prays to one of her collectible Virgen cards: she wants Horacio to find his daughter. Rocky comes in, and I tune out. No, actually, he picks up the card and prays for a nudo marinero (which means either sailor suit or knot). I'm guessing he wants a knot, or a match, of his own. But on the other hand, I wouldn't put it past Rorgan to want a sailor suit . . . Valley girl will swoon.

Lina is now trying to get Bobby to make a pass. She pretends to be tutoring him to woo another girl. Repeat after me, she says--I am clavado with you. (or stuck on you--clavado literally means nailed in).

Mili is now trying to find out why Hugo hates Alex. I still don't understand this--does anyone understand how Alex is connected with these deaths? Or are we still in the dark.

Luciano is in a bar pouring liquor straight from a bottle while Braulio tries to get her to go home. She makes a drunken spectacle of herself before finally leaving.

After lunch, Damien brings Sergio to see Connie. Sergio tells Connie what a great time he had with Connie's secretary. Connie is mystified--and suspicious.

Meanwhile, Val is prancing around the reception desk, prattling on and on about her great date with that guapisimo Sergio--who thinks she's the secretary. Val tosses her head so vigorously, you think it might fly off.

Andrea is quickly trying to come up with an idea to get out of the trouble she's in with Luciana. She decides to make a preemptive strike. She'll tell everyone how drunk Andrea is that she's going around saying crazy stuff--not only is she saying that Andrea is sleeping with Connie, she's telling everyone that Damien is sleeping with the cook. And you know what she's saying about you? she asks Val. She saying you're sleeping with the chauffeur . . . AND the gardener. Val is outraged.

Mili and Alex are now talking about why Hugo hates Alex. She wants Alex to forgive his cousin. She doesn't want the same thing to happen to Hugo that happened with the grena (Andrea), meaning a suicide attempt. Alex says she should do him a favor and not talk about Hugo.

Connie now comes into the bedroom, where Luciana is ready to drink some more. Oh, you're here with "Jacqueca," he says, brandishing the bottle. Is that another name for "Jack Daniels"?

She calls him a disgrace--I never thought you'd fall so low--with your son's girlfriend. MY son? No, he's YOUR son. I have no son, Connie says: I have only one daughter. The bastard is yours.
He taunts her with the one solution: a drink. She stares.

Val now reports on the crazy things their mother is saying. She's even saying that Braulio is spying on her in the bath. Braulio denies it. Alex is upset. Connie comes downstairs and says it's all the hallucinations of a sick woman. He's going to hospitalize her for her own good.

Tomorrow: Luciana tells Andrea that she's too ambitious. She has an offer: how much money will Andrea take to get away from Alex?

Lina and Mili put the torn picture back together: it looks like Mili will learn Connie is her father!

Labels: guapos

Delfi and Nidia are chatting and Nid is wondering if there was fire between Delfi and Anga. Delfi says no, fire no, it was an INFERNO!!! Uh oh!. Delfi continues to recount the story of the duelo and how the two men ended up blaming everything on her. Delfi complains about how rude they ended up being to poor little her for no reason at all. Nidia proclaims well, what are we to do when we were born to love at high speed and break all the rules. Delfi wonders how Nidia knows Angarita anyway?. She stutters and says from Juan.

Like the devil, or the king of Rome, Juan waltzes in. He wonders what they are up to. Nid tells them nothing much, just talking about his friend with two faces, Don Anga and she gives him a look.. Juan makes a comment about Delfi having a big mouth, but he quickly moves of that and wonders what Paula has said to them.

Marely and Fer come in Casa Cachon to see a despondent Kike on the couch. Fer jokes that he is meditating .but he’s not in the mood for jokes. Mar asks if maybe he’s had another fight with Yadi, and he admits that’s it, and it was some sort of foolish thing. Mar kind of says a go figure as if that’s nothing unusual. Fer asks if he can help and Kike refuses but Fer tells Mar he’d like to stay a little to chat with Kike she says she had a great time and of course he should stay because Kike looks like he needs a friend.

The two begin their chat with Kike asking Fer to pour them some shots and maybe he can get it off his chest.

Back in Achi, Delfi tells Juan the story of Pau’s visit with her Mom. He asks her how Pau acted when she heard that he lived there. She recounts how Pau was really excited. He thought bubbles that his little doves has butterflies in her stomach just like he does, and if she only knew that maybe they are suffering form this same sickness together of incurable love. Delfi mentions Pau came with another lady whom Nidia recognizes immediately as her Aniushka!

Back at Casa Cachon Marely chats with Yadi. Yadi refuses to chat about the fight too and changes the subject to Mar’s date. She spills that they had a great time and guess who they ran into at the restaurant, CL with his ex!! They muse over him cheating on Pau with her. The same conversation is occuring downstairs only much more interesting because tequila in involved. Fer can’t believe Cl would put the horns on his wife with his ex. Kike says those people have no values, and continues on a moral philosophical soliloquy of how some pepole work really hard and try to do things right and other just take advantage and dance over the dead, and do what they want with no respect for anything. It’s very sad.

Next we see Juan all decked out in his alligator botas, bathed in soap, and somewhat matching paisley shirt strutting his way over to the hotel to go and find his palomita. His speed slows up as he starts to question half way there whether he should do this, because maybe it’s too late, and she’s sleeping already, and maybe he should wait, and maybe he shouldn’t go. We are then treated to a creative split screen as Pau wanders around the pool in her slinky robe, something I always do in public at a hotel, and he struggles with his doubt. I guess he ends up deciding against and going to the billard hall because we next see him greeting Molo there. He explains it’s late and suddenly all these things occured to him so he decided tomorrow will be a better day.

So it’s tomorrow and Pau and Ana show back up at Delfi’s and say they are going and just wanted to say goodbye because they can’t wait any more. Delfi wonders if they didn’t pass him on the street on his wayt to he boy’s school? Whoops. Pau says no,he’s back? What little boy? Delfi covers and says why the little boy saint of Atocha that’s what she meant. Pau then asks where the school is because they’ll go there to find him Delfi realizing that’s a bad idea asks them to come in to wait for him as that’s better and he won’t be long.

At school Juan is saying goodbye to Juanito and telling him today is a very important day for his father,because something special is going to happen. They bless each and Juanito is off to drool over his teacher for the next 6 hours. Juan tells himself how wonderful little Juan is and that he’s finally done it, like something good.

Mar comes down and sees Kike still on the couch. She wonders what’s still wrong with him and why the two of them fought.

Pau and Ana comment on how they are feeling when Nidia makes a grand entrance greeting Aniushka and Pau, telling how beautiful she looks. They wonder what she is doing here, and she makes up the story that when Juan left her house she knew he would be coming here, so she came. Nid thinks this is all so exciting like a telenovela, where they pass each other and pass each other, but when they meet again there will be an inferno!! Nid encourages the ladies to enjoy the finest of Mexican spirits, despite the hour because it’s already four in Rome anyway!!
Juan stops by the hotel to be told the gals left, but he was assured that his paloma is still registered. Phew!! Here wonders now where they could be, maybe the office.

Meanwhile the girls, slugging down tequila, are wondering how long Juan will take. Nid assures Pau that he won’t be long, and that he won’t escape this time. Pau awakes from her acting stupor and seriously yells at Nid that she made her come all the way out to this pueblo so tell her what the hell is going on. Nid is impactada!

She yells again that when she came looking for Juan he was there in her house, wasn’t he!! Nid sheepishly nods yes. Pau asks to speak alone with her. Ana agrees, but Delfi says this is good gossip. Pau thinks this was a trick. Nid promises to tell if she won’t tell Juan. Pau wants to know why she told her to come all the way here if he was in Mexico. Nid replies that this place is more romantic than Mexico, and that’s what Juan wants to get back together. Pau wants to confirm this is not another lie. Nid says no, that if Pau can be sure of how much she loves him, they could have a second chance and a beautiful life together.

Kike doesn’t want to tell Mar what happened between them. He says it’s just things that she does that bother him, you know, like lying and deceiving. Mar asks if she’s putting the horns in him, i.e. cheating on him, and he says no way, they are a couple still. She says then what? He says he can’t be the one to tell her, so she better get it from her sister.

Delirio is up to tricks again trying to contact someone in Achichipico to find out where his wife is. He does learn that he cousin is there, but they have no phone at the house. You know, we take those things so for granted, but you’d be surprised how many households there really don’t have them. Especially in the pueblitos. He asks the cashier of the phone center to leave a message if she happens to see Delfina.

Juan gets to the office to find Molo hasn’t seen Pau. Juan gets ready to run off to the house to find her, but Molo advises him that he should wait for her to come to him. Surely she will, so Juan agrees and sits to try and calm himself.

Back at Delfi’s Pau is pacing back and forth in front of the camera. This was really funny when I was fastforwarding or rewinding, the red blur. Nid comments how nervous Pau is to see Juan. Anyway, Nid wants to know a little gossip, how did Pau escape from her husband CL? Delfi wants to know who that is and gets a loud impactada voice when she finds out that Pau is married.
Cl and Moni take their various turns warning Fer and Marely not to jump to any conclusions about what they saw at the restaurant, it was nothing, wink wink. Both agree that they won’t remark anything about it. I bet they will though!!

Pau says she’s going on a walk because she can’t just sit there. Ana wants to go but Pau says no stay. Ana worries that if she stays, she’s going to get really drunk at this rate and she wants to be sober to help her daughter through the biggest decision in her life! Next thing you know, Pau walks in to the office where Juan is also beside himself with anticipation. Palomita music plays....
As predicted back at Delfi’s the ladies indeed got themselves drunk!! Ana tells Nid to stop drinking, but she says she’s on vacation. They chat about Juan and Pau and how moral he is and that he would never do anything bad to Pau. They laugh and throw back more tequilitas. Samuel must be turning in his grave right about now.

Molo quickly exits the office. Pau says they finally found each other. Juan says, yeah it was like a movie and cat and mouse game. She says she dreamed of this moment and that it whe would happen exactly this way. They stare at each other for a musical interlude. He finally asks what she’s doing in his territory. She says I was looking for you. He says why. She says just to see him. He says why, so she can make a fool out of him again? She says does he really think that she would come all that way just to play him for a fool? Juan says he doesn’t understand then, and he wants to hear her explanation. She says she came to see him and that’s all there is. He asks and then what, is this is another one of her games and she says no, he’s the one playing games. This pisses him off and rightly so. What does she think that he’s just going fall right into her arms again just by her showing up? Spoiled little girl. You tell her Juan, don’t kiss her nachas!! He tells her, oh now it’s him playing games when someone else is moving the pieces. She wants to know why he’s so aggressive. He says because he doesn’t understand her, that it was work for her to come here and she surely hid it from her husband to come here, and only to tell him she just wanted to see him? He asks if she came just to make him crazy or break his heart more? She says she didn’t know her presence would disturb him so much, he yells that yes because she’s undoing everything he’s worked so hard to put in place. She’s sorry, she guesses she shouldn’t have come. This angers him more and he makes fun that now she’s offended. He says whatever but he’s the offended one. She says maybe she was wrong to come and should leave. He says fine go then. Putting the feet up on the desk is defintiely a nice touch. She stares at him for a while in disbelief like her 100th doll had been taken away from her and given to a little girl who had none.
At the market Anga wants to know why Kike arrived late. He says family problems. Turns out it’s sort of with his wife and with Nid. Anga wants to know what wonder she’s managed to do now. Kike is about to spill the beans when Pastor comes up announcing great news. Anga wants to know what he’s been smokin’. Pastor says he’s found a buyer for all the plaintains they can get and even the apples and more. Cynic Anga wonders what more is behind this. Turns out it’s a Farell person and more clients that could launch the business sky high. Anga thinks maybe he’s robbing clients from Farell, but he says alls fair in business and war. Well, sort of that’s how it goes isn’t it?

Pau says he hasn’t changed, he’s still the same...Juan finishes her sentence, ordinary common and undeducated person? Yes, that’s him, and she’s still the same arrogant, spoiled, pretentious person as always doing what she wants with whomever whenever and use that. She says what’s sadder in his immaturity and that she thought that maybe, well she can’t believe she even thought it. She says goodbye. He says buh-bye, that it goes well for her. Once she’s left he tells himself just two seconds ago he was regretful down to his bones that he had yelled at her so harshly and now look, he’s gon e and done it again. He wonders what is his problem.

Pau passes Molo and Herli chatting about there reunion muttering to herself how stupid that she came, obviously angry, and Herli remarks it’s doubtful they were kissing each other. Molo goes in to see what happened and Juan doesn’t want to talk about it except that he’s angry and just wants to get to work.

Pau rushes into Delfi’s where Ana and Nid are discussing Ana’s future painting expositions still drunker, and says they have to go. Both Ana and Nid are like que the hell!

Pau says you lied and Juan has no intention of getting back with me. Nid tells her not to rush to conclusions and she says they are going now and she pulls away Ana. Delfi says I gues this isn’t like a telenovela, but Nid says well, they just changed the end.

At the market Pastor continues explaining his idea to Anga. Anga says he’s happy with his business and doesn’t need any more so why would he go looking for problems. They discuss this much further, Pastor suggesting that Farell will put his brand name to this and that will help his sales. Anga is not an easy sell, but he’s coming around.

At Farell Moni and CL are discussing how they’ve lost 3 more clients. Moni thinks maybe they should hire him back before the trend continues because Anga is well respected. CL says but he’s not Farell. The phone rings and Pau tells CL she’s coming back tonight. He very cooly talks with her and hangs up. Moni was surprised it was her because of the indifferent way he talked to her.
Juan picks up Juanito from school, visibly out of sorts and Jito wonders what’s up, wasn’t today supposed to be important? Juan answers that sometimes things don’t turn out the way we want. Jito says when he’s sad he hugs something he cares a lot about and he gives Juan a giant hug. Juan comments to himself how this child seems to know exactly what is really important.

Pau wants to know if Ana wants something to eat and she with ice on her head, [I’m thinking that would make it hurt more] says she doesn’t feel well and doesn’t want to travel.

Mare tells Fer she thinks Kike is acting really weird and she’s afraid something is up at her house. Just then Moni asks her to come into her office. She wants to know if Mar knows that Juan and Pau are together.

Pau is sorry she got her Mom into this whole trip. They won’t leave until tomorrow. Nid calls from the reception and confirms that they won’t leave until tomorrow because Ana doesn’t feel well, the room is spinning. I thougt it was great how she let go for a little while. Maybe that wet blanket just needs to dry out in the fresh rural air!!


I got hung up with a few things tonight and I haven't been able to see the show. I'll take it with me though, and try to start on it tomorrow (thurs) before the next episode. From the previews, I can imagine this was a hot encuentro....you know more than I right now!! Maybe it was much ado about nothing? Thanks for waiting....

Happy Valentines Day!!

Labels: Juan

To avoid a rehash we begin as Saintly is on retreat in Monte Carmelo, reading in the garden as his mother walks silently in and looks on. (What gives with the greasy goldilocks, Carla? I ‘m sure it is supposed to remind us of a lion’s mane, but to me it’s just a matted mop of ratty hair on an otherwise gorgeous hunk o’ man.) Ofelia calls to him and she timidly asks how he’s getting along. He looks up and says he’s fine and asks how is she doing. She answers that she’s been worried about him. He grabs and hugs her saying not to worry.
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Back in town Sofia, with Fortunata in tow, comes looking for Saintly, first at the forge then at his house. Sofia greets Ramona, who explains that Ofelia left early in the morning for Monte Carmelo to visit Saintly who happens to be on retreat there. GRita comes out to say hello. Sofia asks her what her husband is doing on retreat at Monte Carmelo. Grita answers it was probably to clear his head. The very next thing out of GRita’s mouth is, “Pardon me for being so abrupt, but it seems that Santiago is Don Jorge’s son.” (I’d say you were more obtuse than abrupt, Rita dear.) Ramona stops dead in her tracks.

Sofia casts an accusing glare over at Fortunata. Feeling self-important, Grita continues, “I hope you don’t mind me bringing it up with you?” Sofia gives GRita a rather contemptuous smile, “Don’t worry yourself,” then turns to go. “Oh,” Sofia turns around to ask. “When does your mother-in-law get back?” GRita, obviously unaware she’s been left out of the loop, turns to Ramona and asks her where Ofelia went. Ramona, doesn’t know what to say, bright enough to figure it’s best to just play dumb at this point, and gives her a non-responsive stammer. Sofia sniffs to herself and walks away in disgust. GRita, who doesn’t have sense enough to know she’s just been dissed, looks a bit puzzled and then smiles smugly to herself for the umpteenth time.
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At Monte Carmelo Ofelia tells Saintly (mistakenly) that only Ascanio knows their situation and that Grita got told to mind her own beeswax when she got nosy. She asks what Saintly plans to do now; he says Friar Lorenzo told him after he’d complained to the friar about his rotten luck, that God was no doubt testing him to see if he had a calling to redeem souls.

Ofelia asks if he intends to become a monk or then, perhaps a preacher once Saintly reminds her that he has a wife and a baby on the way so priesthood is out of the question. Somehow he feels he is being called to bring the lost sheep back into the fold. Ofelia worries that he’s going to be entering the wolf’s den, and that he’ll be lost to temptation instead. He answers her, standing there, somehow reminiscent of Signorelli or Carduccio’s Jesus (–So that’s it, huh, Carla?) that the way to Heaven is difficult. He must try to fight the temptations he faces. After all, that wolf is his father.
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Back at Camila’s townhouse, Jimena asks Cami what she’s going to tell her family, not to mention Don Jorge, when they see her there rather than living in her husband’s house. Cami interrupts with a slight tantrum and yells at her that he’s not her husband, just a shameless scoundrel who deceived her.

Jime suggests that then Cami must be going to tell them he’s not Ricardo Lopez de Carvejal, but is really Ricardo de Salamanca, aka “El Antillano”, the infamous pirate that half the world’s been searching for who is condemned to the gallows. “What a pretty spectacle that will be with the man who drives you crazy in bed hanging there in the plaza by his neck with his tongue out, his eyes popping out of his head and his legs twitching around…..“ (What a visual!) Cami can’t stand it any longer. “—Alright already!” Jime looks at her, “Well, that’s what’s going to happen.”

Cami still has a head full of cobwebs and whines, “Why didn’t he just tell me before?” Jimena loses all patience and says she’s about ready to grab her friend and start slapping her, even if it means Cami kicks her out and she’s forced to turn tricks on Main Street forever and a day. “He explained it all to you! He said that with the business about your dad, his illness, the mill and the store, and Don Jorge—“Jime stops mid-sentence. “Ayy! You win his heart and you respond in this way --and don’t you deny it!! You are in love with him!”

Jimena answers Cami’s hypothetical. “So what would you have done if he had told you before? You would have said something thoughtless to your father, Vasco, to Santiago or whomever and Ric would be dead.” Cami asks her then what she should do, since going back would be so shameful, pretending he’s her husband when he isn’t. (I figure about here that Jimena had to be thinking the same thing we all were: “He got you into bed the first time without a ring, so what’s the frickin’ difference?”)
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Meanwhile, Ric is galloping toward the main road when Vasco spies him and calls him over to ask him if he’s heard the news about Santi being Don Jorge’s bastard son and that DJ might just recognize him. Ric says what’s the big deal? Vasco explains that Jorge needs a male descendant or else the governorship will be awarded to another family. Ric says his daughter could marry and give him a grandson, right? Vasco says sure, but in the end it all depends on what Jorge decides to do.

On the way back home, Manuela runs into Fortunata and tells her that her godmother’s son-in-law is over his head in debt and faces being sent to debtors’ prison and being sold into servitude. They lament that despite his education and proper upbringing, once he’s been bought he has no rights as a person anymore.
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Mario and Guero gallop toward San Luis Rey. Unbeknownst to them, LaFont and his men are headed in the same direction. One of Buffy’s men knows a shortcut and they take it to save time.

Back in town, Cami and Jimena are chatting on the way to Ines’. Jime tells Cami to think about something else before she makes a final split with Ric: the sale of the mill she bought her father will probably be voided since Ric signed with a false name and she’ll be back at square one with Don Jorge telling her she can’t have it back unless she sleeps with him.

Just then they see Ric crossing the plaza. He greets them with a smile and says he guesses Cami hasn’t turned him in since he’d be in jail by now. She changes the subject and asks what he was doing at the town’s administrative offices. He tells her he’s just sent off a letter. She says no she hasn’t said anything, but she’d just as soon he’d leave. They agree to use the story that he left on business then drowned in a shipwreck, but he says first he’ll wait for Mario to return. Cami snidely asks if Mario brings back the letter if Ric plans to give it to her or to Lis. Ric smiles that gorgeous smile of his again, though it’s a bit more restrained this time, ‘cause it is obvious Cami’s ‘tude is getting to him--not to mention the rest of us. He says he figured she knew him better than that by now. Cami, proving that she is definitely hatched from the same hen house as GRita, spitefuly answers that she did once, but not now.

Ric’s had enough and finally he gets angry. He tells her that a person doesn’t change who and what they are simply because their name has changed. He says he’s still the same person she’s known up to now: the same unfortunate guy who is trying to get back the life they stole from him. He turns and walks off, getting the last word, as if to say, “Cami, considering how we met and what it took for you to get back here to San Fernando, I’d think you’d understand and not be so quick to condemn, let alone gettin’ on your high horse like you are.” As if…..

After he’s gone Jimena, the single raindrop in Cami’s desert of dense, tries to make Cami see reason and gives her another good piece of her mind. (Somebody needs to.) “How could you have been so unfeeling? You practically threw him out of town!” “—I’m not to blame for who or whatever he is.” “—Well, he isn’t to blame, either,” says Jimena. “He told you why he became a pirate. He’s treated you like a queen (Here! Here!), spoiled you, given into you, helped your family, confronted the Lord Governor of the place (Damn straight!), and still he’s worrying himself trying to get that damned letter back to make sure you keep your money.” (Damn! Mario was right. Where has the guy’s self-respect gone?) Cami apparently has to think this one through a bit more. “So I’m supposed to go back to him? My father will die of shame when he finds out we’re not really married.” Jimena (the one who Ric really should be hooking up with) says why bother telling him at all.
=======

In the boonies, Mario and Guero are slowed down asking directions and backtracking to find the right trail to take them to San Luis Rey. On the way, they come upon Foreman who’s waiting while his coach has a broken axle fixed. Mario tells him that they are on an errand for El Antillano, but he covers quickly and says it’s to look for lamb for a big barbecue. Foreman is all excited there’ll be a party. Mario says they’re celebrating Antillano’s marriage. Foreman is impactado to hear El Antillano has gotten married. He tells Mario that it just so happens that he and Hernan were headed to San Fernando to visit Antillano. He invites them to come along. Mario says thanks, but like, they really have to get the lamb first. So Foreman asks what name Antillano is using now, since he can’t really go around asking for ‘El Antillano.’ Mario tells him Lopez de Carvejal. Foreman tells him that he’ll be using the name John Lancastar and will say he’s a natural scientist doing experiments and collecting specimens or whatever.

Meanwhile, Ric does a little soul searching in the country and thinks to himself that he has to become emotionally detached from Cami. “I’ve got to think about me and my life. By God, it is costing me so much, too much,” he says. “What a rotten time to fall in love with you, Camila. What a really rotten time.”

Along the trail, Mario tells Guero he’s ticked at having lost so much time shooting the breeze with Foreman. Guero wonders why Foreman is really out and about travelling like that. He asks Mario if maybe Foreman is really scoping things out, planning to plunder Veracruz. Mario has an idea but when Guero wants to go into it more, Mario cuts him off and starts galloping toward San Luis Rey again.
==============

Cami visits Justo. They discuss Vasco and Ines getting along so well now, and how Vasco has fortunately for them all gotten his head on straight and become a help rather than a hindrance. Justo asks after Ric. In order not to shock his system again she invents a story about Ric’s leaving to take care of a few business dealings and adds that he sent along his best wishes. He says he was the right man to protect her from the likes of Don Jorge. Justo then has to say what every self-respecting new FIL tells his daughter: Get pregnant fast and give me grandkids.
=====

Hernan and Foreman are finally on the road again. Neither can imagine Antillano being in love. Foreman thinks his wife must be something pretty special to make him leave “the life” for her. Hernan thinks that perhaps Lazaro was right, that Antillano has gone soft. Foreman says he doesn’t agree at all. In fact, he is intrigued by all the coincidences surrounding Antillano. Hernan says, “Like Lafont being from the same little town?” The wheels in the English corsair’s head are starting to turn. He tells Hernan, “Yes, and also that he seems to have an important Spanish functionary for a godfather…..”

Outside at Justo’s Jimena tells his housekeeper to make sure he continues to get his medicine so that his blood doesn’t “thicken.” (Probably they’re referring to some kind of homeopathic aspirin-like concoction of the day to keep his blood from clotting and causing another stroke.) Jimena gossips then about Vasco and Ines’ marriage, which the housekeeper agrees will continue to work as long as Vasco doesn’t start alley cattin’ again.

Upstairs Justo tells Cami that he is anxious to throw a big bash to celebrate her marrying a great guy like Ric, and a man he likes enough to consider another son. Cami is obviously uncomfortable with the idea, but says she’ll “discuss it” with Ric and get back to him. Justo says it would be a great satisfaction to die knowing his children were all respectably married. They hug and Cami cries secret tears of shame.

Back walking through town together a few minutes later, Cami tells Jime about the conversation she just had with her father. They decide to pay a visit to GRita, but Jimena warns her Ric won’t like it. Cami says she has a right to visit her own family and they head for Santiago’s house.

Jorge walks to the blacksmith shop and asks around for Santi. Ascanio tells him that he went to see a client about doing some urgent repairs. Jorge leaves word that when he gets back to tell him he should come looking for him. He wants to speak with him. He leaves and Chip and Dale ask Ascanio what’s up with Santiago since they all know Santi didn’t go see some client and isn’t it strange that first Doña Sofia ,and now Don Jorge comes asking for him. Ascanio brushes both of them off and tells them to ask Santi when he gets back, and walks away troubled by having to keep so many secrets.

Jorge runs into Jime and Cami in the plaza. They try to avoid him, but end up sitting at an outside café table when he asks to join them. They can’t exactly refuse and he sits down. After a bit of meaningless chitchat about Justo’s health, he asks Cami how Ric is spending his time these days. He says he was given to understand that none of the business propositions he and Alberto discussed with him were appealing. “I don’t really discuss business with him,” she answers.

Jorge keeps verbally jabbing her. “On the other hand, though, perhaps Ric is thinking of leaving, since the business with Lis’s inheritance was mercilessly cruel.” Cami politely replies, “I had no influence in any of her father’s decisions.” “—Oh, I don’t doubt it,” says Jorge. “I pity her as well.” Then Jorge comments that he is happy for Cami, though. As rich as Ric ought to be, her inheritance shouldn’t be necessary. He excuses himself, leaves a coin for his wine and walks off with a slight smirk on his face.

Cami says that’s the second time Don Jorge has spoken to her in a mocking tone of voice when talking about her money. Jime tells Cami that Don Jorge was sticking it to her about Ric’s money, since he knows perfectly well that Ric doesn't have any money because he was the one who stole it from him.
===========

In San Luis Rey, Alberto arrives at Eusebia's while Eusebia's at the bakery with her little boy. The little girl takes him to her "Uncle Bernabe". LaFont, with the little girl in his arms, asks Bernabe menacingly for the ED letter. Bernabe plays dumb at first, but LaFont takes out his stiletto and tells him to hand it over or he'll carve the little girl to pieces. At the same time LaFont gently kisses the little girl on the head and lets her down in a single smooth move that is definitely “skin-crawl” worthy. Frightened, Bernabe whines to LaFont that it was all Vasco's idea (as if that would make a difference with Vlad The Impaler LaFont.) LaFont says he could care less, just hand it over or else. Bernabe goes to get it but he is shaking so hard he can hardly unbuckle the leather pouch it's in. (Note: Bernabe’s pouch was under the bed, so could Cami’s cash be hidden under there too?)
==============

Cami and Jimena find Ines at Santi’s, filling in for her mother and taking care of her clients while Ofelia’s up at Monte Carmelo. Cami asks what’s she’s doing up there, so Ines tells them to come into the sewing room so she can tell them all about it. GRita hears them and Ramona explains Cami and Jimena are there visiting in the sewing room with Ines. GRita smiles smugly (a-gain) to herself and walks in just as Ines begins to tell Cami and Jime the news. With a mile-wide grin she manages to tell them the news—her news--first: her hubby is going to be the future Lord of San Fernando. Full of herself, GRita beams at them in some sort of bizarre triumph; even Jimena is speechless.
===========

Later that afternoon, back at the townhouse, it seems Cami’s inner self is still in conflict. Crying in her copa, she hangs her head and admits to Jime that she doesn't know what to do about Ric. Jime, instinctively aware that being shrewd always tops being a shrew, advises her to have the wedding celebration and go back to Ric like nothing’s happened.

Cami argues that it’s a sham marriage and they’d be tricking the entire town. “But you’re already married, he told you. He made that oath in front of the altar. Besides who cares what that bunch of cowards thinks! What did they ever do for you? Did they defend your father’s mill and store when Don Jorge took them from him? Do they protest whenever he decides to carry off some woman to his bed on a whim?”

Cami defends the townspeople saying they’re all afraid and Jime says that’s her point. She tells Cami she needs to think about her own needs. “Who cares what name the man goes by when he adores you, your father thinks of him like a son and you love him? It’s the man that is important to you.” “—But what if they should discover him tomorrow or the day after?” “—Let God deal with it, but in the meantime, enjoy. Happiness doesn’t last very long.”

Cami finally sees the light here, but is too full of pride to see herself returning and asking to be forgiven. Jimena says to give it a day or two and he’ll come to see her, they’ll reconcile and well, that’s that. Cami says it’s not so simple, but Jime says it would be extremely simple if it were her. Anyway, they love each other; he suits her, her family, and everyone else for that matter.

Suddenly Jimena gets an idea and fakes being nauseous from drinking too much. She leaves Cami to her thoughts and goes out looking for Candida. Jime tells the girl to bring her a giant cup of strong coffee but that she is planning on going out, so if Cami should ask for her to tell her she's sound asleep.
=============

Mario and El Guero get into San Luis Rey finally and are asking directions to Eusebia's. They pull up outside the door to her house just as a bloodcurdling scream comes from inside. Guero stands guard while Mario races inside the room where he finds Eusebia holding a dead Bernabe in her arms. He assures her he means no harm. She says that her daughter told her that a gentleman came asking for him, entered and then left. She came in and found him like this.

Mario spies Bernabe's open saddlebag and starts searching through the papers in it. He asks Eusebia about the letter he was supposed to have, but she has no idea what he's talking about. Mario looks at the two of them, frustrated at being a bit too late to retrieve the letter and takes in LaFont’s gruesome handiwork: Bernabe’s slit throat.

At the same time Ofelia returns home. Ines tells her that GRita told her the news. Ascanio comes over from the forge to tell her both Sofia and Don Jorge came by looking for Santi and that Jorge wants to speak with him.

Ofelia confirms the “news” to her daughter. Ines tries to comfort her mother and tells her that although she doesn’t know how it happened, she’s certain her mother was not to blame. She asks if Santi was in Monte Carmelo because of this and Ofelia says yes. Ines wants to know what he said about it, but Ofelia can only cry and shake her head in shame.

That night Ursula comes down to speak to her father about her “supposed” half-brother. She’s convinced it’s a gimmick of her mother’s and Ofelia’s to hurt her. It can’t be true that he is his son, she tells him, because for all his apparent decency, he still is no more than a course, uncouth hick. Jorge stops her. “An uncouth hick? Seems you were all hot to substitute him for the other guy, that Vasco Darien.” “—I swear, Daddy, that that was some fabrication of Mother’s. Anyway, supposing he really is your bastard. There’s no way you ought to recognize him because it would be just too… humiliating having a blacksmith for a brother.”

Jorge stops her again. “Hey, being a blacksmith is no small feat. To be a master blacksmith is more impressive still.” “—But he’s still a townie!” she complains. Jorge begins to give her a quick backgrounder regarding their family tree. “My ancestors –and your ancestors—arrived here 200 years ago, and what do you think they were? Farm-workers, bakers, quick-thinkers. Many were thieves and murderers as were the majority of those who came to conquer this land.” “—Dad, we’re a bit more refined now.” “—Think so, eh? Well, even when we appear refined, we don’t deny our heritage. You yourself appear all silvery and golden, but you behave like a tavern girl. Or, am I wrong?”

Ursula ignores this bit of truth and asks what happens to her then if she remarries and gives him a grandson. Jorge explains his reasoning and says that if she has more children they’ll have some other man’s last name. He wants the Governorship to be held by a Mancera. If he finds he has a son who is a self-made man, tried and true, cultured and literate, who makes a good appearance, then, problem solved.

“—So, you’ve made your decision?” Jorge explains that the way he sees it, her husband will want her to move to his home in some other town. If she gets married, he adds, he hopes she’ll comport herself properly, because if she continues to carry on like some whore and the guy throws her out, don’t count on running back to Papa.

As far as Jorge is concerned, then, all that’s lacking now is to speak with Santi about it. If they come to some agreement, then perhaps he will officially recognize him as his son with all the rights that come with it. Ursula fights back her tears and wisely swallows her anger.

Across town, Vasco and Paco have a different kind of conversation. Vasco explains the difference between being a servant and being sold into servitude--heavy stuff for a little kid, but Vasco does a pretty good job of it. Some servants he says are bought and sold like slaves because of some tragedy, while others, like theirs, come to work for them because they want to.
=========

Later that same night, Ric tells Lis he’s got somewhere to be and she asks if it has to do with Camila. He gives her an emphatic “No!” and abruptly walks out on her.

At the same time Jimena is getting out of a coach outside Ric's manor house and tells Pablo she urgently needs to speak to Ric. Pablo tries to explain that it will have to wait since he is just about to leave. Ric happens to walk out at that moment and she runs over to tell him that he should go see Camila. With a broad smile she says that if he goes over there tonight Cami will most definitely come back with him. He hesitates not knowing whether to go to the townhouse, or with his men to see if the money caravan from Vericruz is attacked.

Labels: Pasion

Hugo wonders why Soledad is going into the mine. He says that for him, going into the mine is like returning to the coffin. Flashback to Hugo being buried alive. "Now, what do I do?" he asks himself.

Beatriz grabs Alcides' gun and says that she remembers that it was he who raped her. She says that she will kill him. Alcides goes down on his knees.

Hercules, Rebeca and Elois bicker about how things went with Ester.

Alcides uses his kneeling position to grab some dirt and throw it in Beatriz' face. Then he overpowers her. He says that he has to kill her and is about to do so when Arturo shows up.
Hugo puts on his bandido mask and goes into the mine with the police in pursuit. [Ah, the mine. What adventures we will have in this mine.] Hugo finds Soledad and asks why she is following him. Soledad says that she has to know who he is. He says that the mine is dangerous and they have to leave.

Alcides tells Arturo that when he found Beatriz, she attacked him. Beatriz tells Arturo that she isn't crazy and won't go back to the sanatorium. Alcides insists to Arturo that Beatriz is in bad shape. Artuto tells Alcides that he should be worried about his wife , not Beatriz. He tells Alcides that Soledad was last seen following the robber towards the mine.

Lucas scolds Ester for being rude to Rebeca and Eloisa. Ester replies that she thinks Rebeca is a gold digger. She scolds Lucas for offering to give away their posessions when they are in a precarious financial condition. When Lucas tells her that the stuff Jeremias' gave them has no value, Ester doesn't agree. She says that if Rebeca wants the stuff, it must be more valuable than it appears.

Hugo and Soledad run around in the collapsing mine. He tells her to trust him ('Confia en mi') just like he did when they were courting. They fall down in each other's arms.

The Inspector and his men reach the entrance to the mine. Hugo and Soledad have the entrance in sight. The Inspector tells Hugo to come out with his hands up.

Rebeca, Eloisa and Hercules return to the house they have sold to Hugo and find it trashed. They hear noises upstairs.

In the mine, Hugo comes over all woozy and then he passes out. Soledad tells the Inspector that she is in the mine.

Hercules and the carriage driver chase the thief and shoot at him.

Soledad can't rouse Hugo. She says that she doesn't know what to do. She decides to find out who he is and starts to pull his mask down. At that moment, Boris, also in a mask, stops her. However, Soledad is sucessful in pulling Boris' mask down.

Rebeca tells Eloisa that the thief in the house is undoubtedly, Enrico, the servant of her dead husband.

Soledad is full of questions about why Boris is in the mine but he only tells her that she has to get out of the mine and that he will take care of the mysterious masked man. Soledad heads for the entrance to the mine.

Boris returns to the still unconscious Hugo and says that he is afraid Hugo is having another catalepsy attack.

The police are about to go into the mine when Alcides rides up. He accuses the Inspector of cowardice and says that he will go into the mine after is wife when Soledad comes out of the mine. Elena witnesses this.

Eloisa and Rebeca determine that nothing is missing from the house. Rebeca concludes that Enrico came back to look for clues to the treasure of her dead husband. Meanwhile, Enrico gets the drop on Hercules and tells him that he knows that he and Rebeca killed Jeremias and that Hercules has no right to the treasure. The coachman shoots and wounds Enrico.

Back at the cabaña in the forest, Elena tells Dr. Max that Hugo is trapped in the mine by the police. Dr. Max remembers the air ducts for the mine and tells Los Burque that they can rescue Hugo that way.

Hugo comes around. Boris reassures him that Soledad didn't discover his identity. Hugo tells Boris that he knows where the air ducts are for the mine. The police demand that Hugo come out of the mine.

Soledad tells Ursula, Marina and Paquito that she didn't find out who the masked bandit was but if she didn't know that Hugo was dead, she would have sworn it was Hugo. She stells them that Boris was in the mine and stopped her from removing Hugo's mask.

Beatriz threatens to kill herself if Arturo takes her back to the sanatorium. Arturo swears that he won't do that.

Hercules loses Enrico's trail.

Waiting outside the mine, Alcides picks up what Hugo is feeling in the same way he did when Hugo woke up in his grave: he almost passes out and chokes. [I did not remember this scene before. It explains how Alcides knew that Hugo would be incapacitated in the mine when he traps him there with Soledad a few episodes later. It didn't make sense that Alcides would have been able to guess that because as we have seen, Hugo did not have a problem with enclosed spaces before he was buried alive. This scene also must be when Alcides figures out that Hugo is still alive.] Alcides insists on going into the mine. Duarte and the police follow. Soledad wants to go back in there, too to keep the police from hurting the man who saved her life. Paquito won't let her go back into the mine.

Boris helps Hugo walk until they find the ventilation shaft. They are wondering how they will get out through the shaft when a rope comes down. It's Los Burke and Dr. Max.

Meanwhile Alcides is looking for Boris in the mine. He stands right under Hugo and Boris who are dangling at the end of the rope. Fortunately, he doesn't look up or wonder where the daylight is coming from. Alcides and the police finally figure out that team Hugo escaped by the air shaft.

Team Hugo is running away from the mine. While they rest for a minute, Dr. Max tells Hugo that Beatriz escaped. Hugo says that they have to find her - she know that it was Alcides who attacked her.

Arturo takes Beatriz to his house (Hugo's old house) and she has a tearful reunion with her mother.

Alcides and the police come out of the mine and tells Soledad and Úrsula that the bandidos escaped. Alcides pulls Marina aside and demands to know where the criminals are hiding. Marina denies knowing anything. Alcides is about to hit her when first Soledad and then Inspector Duarte intervene. At first Alcides refuses to let Marina come to the hacienda with Soledad but Paquito persuades him to change his mind. He tells Alcides that he should keep Marina close by until he finds out who is behind all this. Alcides agrees.

He tells Paquito to take the women to the hacienda while he takes care of some other business. Soledad thanks him. To himself, Paquito says that nothing is in this life is free.

Back at Hugo's old house, Alcides tells Arturo that Boris and Los Burke were behind the thefts from the vault. Alcides says that he will get them. Arturo replies that he better get the items to repay his loan or he will take it from Alcides' inheritence. Alcides tells Arturo that he assumes that Beatriz has been returned to the Sanatorium. Arturo and then Doña Gladis tell him that Beatriz is not returning to the sanatorium. She will stay at home and receive medical treatment there. Alcides mentions that Beatriz mistook him for Hugo and tried to kill him earlier. Arturo assures him that he and Gladis will keep Beatriz safe. Dr. Max arrives to consult about Beatriz and Alcides asks to get some things from his old room.

Alcides goes to Beatriz' room where she is sleeping and starts to smother her with a pillow. He is attacked from behind.

Dr. Max promotes treating Beatriz by hypnotism. Arturo wants Dr. Max to see Beatriz at once. He makes excuses about why he can't see her that night. Arturo wonders if there was some other motive for his visit.

Meanwhile, back in Beatriz' room, Hugo succeeds in overpowering Alcides. Arturo, Gladis and Dr. Max rush upstairs when they hear a loud noise from Beatriz' room. She tells them that she fell out of bed and is ok. Dr. Max sees that Hugo is in the room and says that he wants to speak ot Beatriz alone. Gladis is suspicious but Arturo persuades her to leave with him. Once they are gone, Hugo pops out of the closet with the unconscious Alcides and tells Dr. Max that Alcides tried to suffocate Beatriz.

Hercules reports his failure to find Enrico to Rebeca. He tells her that Enrico knows that they murdered Jeremias and that Enrico was wounded by a bullet and might be dead.

Enrico is staggering through the woods.

Soledad, Úrsula, Marina and Paquito have stopped on the road to wait for Alcides. Paquito asks why Soledad was so interested in going after the bandido who looked like Hugo. Soledad says that it was Hugo's voice, his look, the way he spoke to her. It seemed as if Hugo were there. She goes on to tell Paquito about the other times that she had seen or felt Hugo's presence since he died. She describes her psychic link with Hugo when he was alive. She says that this is different. It's real and she has to find out who is behind it all. She tells Paquito that sometimes she thinks she is going crazy. At that moment, Enrico staggers into the clearing and collapes.

Dr. Max injects Alcides with something to keep him asleep. Beatriz wants Hugo to finish him off but Hugo says that he has a better plan. He will make it so that Alcides is wracked with guilt his whole life.

The credits roll.

Labels: la traicion

Due to the Premio lo Nuestro awards.

Labels: Pasion

The judge is receiving persons in the courtroom. Alcides comes up to him. The judge looks up and says that he can't believe that Alcides has the nerve to appear before him. Alcides says that he doesn't understand. The judge says that Alcides can hardly expect his threats to be effective here where the judge is surrounded by police officers. Alcides says that he only came to ask for a date to be set... The judge interrupts and says that he knows why Alcides has come and he finds Alcides' haste to get his hands on his inheritance worrisome. Alcides asks what he means. The judge says that he will take all the time necessary to investigate Alcides' claim to the inheritence and if he finds anything suspicious, he will cancel the transfer of the property. Alcides says that the judge has no right to do this. The judge says that Alcides had no right to come and threaten him. If he does anything else, he will pay dearly. He calls for the next person in line. Poor Alcides has no idea what is going on. He walks slowly away from the judge and towards Arturo who is shaking his head.

At Hugo's townhouse, Rebeca tells Eloisa that Soledad's father, Lucas, may have some clues as to where Jeremias' treasure can be found. Hercules tells Eloisa that according to Manrique, Jeremias gave Lucas de Obragon a bunch of stuff, which would be very unusual for someone as stingy (tacaño) as Jeremias. Hercules says that he is sure that amongst that stuff, there is a clue to where the treasure is. Rebeca says that is why they are going to pay a visit to the Obragon house. Paquito staggers in out of breath to report that a visit won't be necessary. The Obragons have come to the townhouse to visit their daughter. Rebeca and Hercules leave. "Last night I saw Alcides leaving your room," Paquito says to Eloisa, "Congratulations. I see you haven't wasted any time." Eloisa says that he knows her and she has Alcides is eating out of her hand. Paquito tells her to be careful and not fall in love with him.

Soledad receives her parents in the courtyard of the house. Ursula has told them that about her trip to San Marino and they've come to say goodbye. Soledad says that she will miss them. She asks after her father's health. He says that he is better and is just starting to ask why Soledad is so sad when Rebeca shows up pretending to be all amazed to see him again. Lucas introduces her to Ester as the widow of his old friend Jeremias de Montenegro. Rebeca says that being in the city again brings back so many memories of her dead husband. She says that she wants to ask him a favor. Lucas is all gallant and has totally forgotten about his concern for Soledad. Rebeca says that she understands that her late husband gave Lucas some stuff and she would like it back. It has a sentimental value to her. "Yes," says Lucas, "he gave me some things and I never could understand why. They are in the house. Stop by whenever and get them." Ester is giving Lucas a look. Rebeca thanks Lucas and says that she has to go and finish packing. Lucas is waving goodbye when Ester pushes his hand down. "Widow," she says, "she really doesn't look like one to me."

Leaving the court building, Arturo asks Alcides if he can explain what the judge meant about threatening him. Alcides says that he didn't understand it at all. Arturo tells Alcides that he hopes this isn't one of his tricks to get out of paying what Alcides owes him. Alcides says that Arturo can come this afternoon and he will transfer the house to him. Arturo reminds him that that the house was to repay the money that Arturo lent Alcides to settle the debt and save the house of his inlaws. He te;;s Alcides that in return for helping him get rid of Hugo, Arturo was promised part of the inheritence. Alcides says that in Hugo's safe there are jewels and relics that Arturo can sell for a lot of money. "We'll see about that," says Arturo. Hugo and Boris are watching in their campesino disguises. "This pair of hyenas are already beginning to tear each other to pieces (despedezarse)," says Hugo.

Guillermo is drinking in the taverna when Margot comes up to him. She asks where he has been. Did he succeed in getting into the safe? Helena comes up behind Margot and asks what business that is of hers. Margot says that it is her business because she and fatso (gordo) were partners in that. Helena waves a diamond necklace in front of Margot and Margot turns furiously on Guillermo and asks if Helena got it from the safe.

Margot attacks Guillermo and he says that he and Helena have been together for many years and he had to respect her seniority is matters such as this. Helena scornfully sends Margot off to wait tables. The diminutive duo come out of the tavern talking about selling the necklace when Inspector Duarte snatches it away from them and asks where they got it. They reply that Hugo gave it to them before he died. Duarte say that he needs to look into the matter and has them taken to the police station. It turns out that it was Margot who ratted on Los Burke. Duarte thanks her.

Alcides is showing Arturo around the townhouse. He gives him the key. Arturo asks about the valuables in the safe. Alcides says that it is in the basement. They encounter Rebeca and Eloisa who are about to leave. It transpires that Rebeca knows Arturo because Jeremias was friends with his mother. Paquito appears and says that Rebeca's carriage is ready. They leave. Eloisa says goodbye to Alcides and looks forward to when they will be neighbors in San Marino. She tells Soledad that if she needs a friend, she can call on her. Soledad tells Alcides that she has had the household stuff loaded onto the carriage. Alcides compliments her efficiency. He tells her to get ready, they will be leaving soon. "For a newlywed, she doesn't look too happy," Arturo says to Alcides. Alcides asks what business it is of his.

At the cabaña in the forest, Dr. Max tells Hugo and Boris that Los Burke have been arrested trying to sell a necklace that appears to be stolen. Boris reminds Hugo that he told him that Los Burke were not to be trusted. Hugo says that it's too late for recriminations. They have to get Los Burke out of jail before they reveal his secret. Boris offers to go the polices station and pay their bail. Dr. Max doesn't think that is a good idea. It could appear that Boris is in league with Los Burke. Hugo agrees. He says that Los Burke have to be sprung from jail by more radical means.

Arturo tells Alcides that he hopes the stuff in the vault is as valuable as Alcides said it was. Alcides opens the door of the vault and it is empty, completely empty. Team Hugo even managed to get the thermal chamber out of there without anyone in the house hearing. "This can't be," says Alcides. Arturo asks if this is a joke.

Alcides pushes him aside and leaves the vault. Alcides calls Marina and asks what happened to the stuff in the cellar.

When she doesn't reply, he hits her and asks again what she did with the stuff in the cellar. Soledad and Úrsula come down the stairs and try to stop Alcides from hitting Marina. He tells her to butt out. He hits Marina again and she says that she doesn't know what he is talking about. She hasn't robbed anyone. Duarte comes in and asks what is going on. Alcides says that he is glad Duarte has come. The safe with all the treasure of the Medina family has been robbed and he says that Marina was involved. Alcides says that there were valuable objects in the cellar. "Like this?" says Duarte, dangling the necklace that he took from Los Burke in front of Alcides. He tells them how Los Burke were trying to sell it outside the taverna and claimed that Hugo had given it to them and now they are in custody. Alcides says that he has to talk to them. He, Duarte and Arturo leave.

Soledad tries to comfort a sobbing Marina. She points out the the police said that she wasn't involved. Marina tells Soledad that there is something she doesn't know - Boris was involved in the robbery. She tells Soledad that she saw Boris in the cellar the previous night with Los Burke and they were taking things but he said that he wasn't stealing them. Boris told her that they were Hugo's things and he was taking them before Alcides destroyed them. Soledad says that Boris has always been a very faithful employee. She can't believe that he would have bad intentions. Marina agrees but says that if the police arrest Los Burke, Boris will be accused and she will end up in jail. Soledad says that Boris would never get her involved but Úrsula says that she has no such confidence in Los Burke. Soledad reassures Marina. She says that she will take Marina to her parents' house and convince them to hire her. She can't allow Alcides to hurt Marina anymore. Soledad goes to leave Marina's room, opens the door and there is Paquito, listening. He says that he can't allow three women to travel alone. He insists on accompanying them.

In prison, Los Burke are exchanging recriminations about Guillermo's involvement with Margot that Helena believes led them to be arrested. Suddenly, a stone comes through the window of their cell. A note is wrapped around the stone and it says, "For your safety, stay away from the wall. We're getting you out."

Duarte ushers Alcides and Arturo into his office. Los Burke are crouched against the door of the cell.

There is a large explosion. Duarte and his visitors go to see what happened. Los Burke climb out of the hole in the wall of the cell. Guillermo thanks Hugo and says that he knew Hugo wouldn't abandon them. Hugo tells Guillermo that it was stupid to rob his things and this has created lots of problems for them. Boris says the police will be coming soon and they have to go. Hugo tells Boris to take Los Burke to the north side of the forest near his father's mine. He is going to divert pursuit and will meet them there in an hour. Hugo pulls a mask over his face and puts on his horrible hat.

Hugo holds up Soledad's carriage at gunpoint. Paquito tells him not to shoot; there are women in the carriage. Meanwhile, the police are in pursuit. Hugo jumps into the carriage and tells Paquito to drive on. There is a wild gunfight between the police and Hugo in the streets of the town. Hugo tells the women in the carriage to stay down and nothing will happen to them. Soledad recognizes Hugo's voice. "Who are you?" she asks. "This isn't the right time to answer your questions," replies Hugo. In pursuit, Alcides tells Duarte not to shoot. His wife is in the carriage.

At the cabaña in the forest, Boris scolds Los Burke for not listening to his instructions and stealing things. Hes calls them a pair of rats. Helena objects and says that they aren't rats but independent businessmen and not servants like him. Guillermo tells Helena not to be ungrateful to Boris. He got them out of prison. Helena says Boris didn't have anything to do with getting them out of jail. Boris tells them to thank Hugo. He says that if it were up to him, they would still be in jail. Beatrice and Dr. Max come out of the house. Beatrice says she has to find Hugo. Dr. Max says that she isn't going anywhere. Boris says he can't allow this to get more complicated they will have to tie Beatrice up.

Hugo in his bandido outfit succeeds in throwing off the pursuit. He tells Paquito to drive the carriage down the opposite street. Soledad says that if he isn't being followed, he should leave them there. Hugo apologizes and says that he doesn't want to harm them but he has to get out of the city and needs their help. Soledad offers to stay if he will let the others go. Hugo says that there isn't time to argue. He tells Paquito to drive on.

Los Burke tie Beatriz up. Boris apologizes to her but says that she has to stay tied up until Hugo returns. He can't risk her doing something crazy. Boris tells Dr. Max that he has to meet Hugo in the forest and in view of what happened, he can't leave Los Burke here alone. Dr. Max says that he will take care of them. Dr. Max stays that in her condition, Beatriz is a danger to them and they should get rid of her. Boris replies that Beatriz is under Hugo's protection and he'll decide what to do. Boris warns Dr. Max not to do anything to Beatriz until Hugo returns.

The carriage careens along. Soledad wonders who the masked man is. There is something about his voice and the way he looks at her. Úrsula tells her to be careful. The man looks dangerous. Soledad asks why the police are pursuing him. Hugo says that he doesn't have to answer her questions. "Do I know you from somewhere?" asks Soledad. "I don't think so," replies Hugo, "but even if that were so, they say that you never really know women." Not surprisingly, Soledad asks what he means by that and he tells her that if she doesn't shut up, he will prevent her from speaking. Soledad says that she won't say anything more.

Hercules, Rebeca and Eloisa are on their way back to San Marino. Hercules questions why Rebeca hasn't gone immediately to get the stuff from the Obragron house. Rebeca says that she doesn't want to appear too eager. Eloisa defends her. Hercules says that if they don't try and get the stuff now, they will regret it for the rest of their lives. Rebeca agrees but says that she will do the talking.

Alcides, the Inspector and Arturo reunite. An officer says that there is no trace of the carriage. Arturo offers his men to help search. Inspector Duarte is hestitent but Alcides insists since his wife is missing.

Ester receives Rebeca, Eloisa and Hercules with a marked lack of enthusiasm. She says that she didn't expect to see them again so soon. Rebeca says that they couldn't leave the city without visiting the home of such a prestigious family. She asks if Lucas is home. Ester says that he isn't available. Rebeca et all are about to leave when Lucas appears and invites them in.

In the secret basement room in the cabaña in the forest, Los Burke are guarding Beatriz, who is tied up. Dr. Max comes in and tells Los Burke to go get something to eat. Beatriz begs Dr. Max to let her go. She says that she isn't dangerous, she just wants to help Hugo. He needs her. [Right after Beatriz says, "El me necessita," we hear wild turkeys gobbling. I believe this is the first appearance of this sound effect that will be be heard all the time when the action in the novela shifts to the Hacienda Montenegro.] Dr. Max say that he will untie Beatriz. He does so and tells her to get out before he changes his mind. When she has gone, he takes a pistol out of his waistband and goes after her.

Rebeca tells Lucas and Ester how difficult it has been for her since Jeremias died. Good ol' Hercules comes right to the point. He asks to see the stuff that Jeremias gave to Lucas. Rebeca says that regaining the stuff would help with her grief.

In the carriage, Soledad tells Hugo-Bandido that he should let them go as he promised now that they are outside the city. Hugo says that he can't yet. They have to get closer to the mine. Hugo takes a watch out of his pocket and looks at it. Soledad looks at it and has has flashback to sitting by a noisy fountain in the courtyard of Hugo's house and giving him this watch as an engagement gift to symbolize that they will be together all the time. Úrsula asks why Soledad is pale all of a sudden. She says that the watch belongs to Hugo and the bandido's look... Soledad asks who he is and why does he have a watch that belongs to Hugo de Medina.

Lucas lays out all the junk that Jeremias gave him on the table.

Rebeca asks if he is sure that this is all the stuff? Lucas thinks of something he forgot. While he is gone, Rebeca is pessimistic that any of this stuff contains a clue. Hercules replies that they can't be sure. They had better take it all. Rebeca pretends that this stuff reminds her of the pleasant times she shared with her dead husband. Eloisa says that they should pack up the stuff and go when Ester announces that the stuff belongs to her and isn't going anywhere.

Beatriz heads off down the road saying that she has to find Hugo. Dr. Max follows and raises his pistol. Los Burke grab him to prevent him from shooting Beatriz. There is a struggle and Guillermo is shot.

Soledad demands to know where Hugo got the watch. Marina says that Hugo is clearly an accomplice of Los Burke who were in Hugo's house the previous night. Presumably, they stole it. Soledad says that it belongs to her and wants it back. "What is your interest, Señora?" asks Hugo, "I can't believe that it has a sentimental value for you." Soledad replies that she doesn't have to explain herself to him. Hugo goes on to say that he knows that she was engaged to Hugo de Medina. Soledad says that she wants the watch as a remembrance. Hugo says to himself that if she really wanted to remember him, she would be wearing the locket he gave her. Flashback to him giving her locket. [This is not the last time that the locket will fail to do its duty to make Hugo realize that Soledad still loves him.] Soledad asks why Hugo is looking at her that way. He says that he doesn't think she wants to keep a souvenir of Hugo de Medina. Soledad says how dare he give his opinion about her personal life. Hugo says that a woman who marries someone else two days after burying her fiance is a tramp. Soledad says that she doesn't care what he thinks. She wants the watch back now. Hugo flashes back to the kiss in the cabaña. Hugo says that he doesn't believe her but if she wants to hold on to it, she can. He takes that watch out and after dangling it in front of Soledad, he throws it out of the carriage onto the road. Soledad calls for Paquito to stop the carriage and she tries to jump out. Hugo tells Paquito not to dare stop and Úrsula and Marina prevent Soledad from jumping out. Hugo then holds his gun in such a way that Soledad can see that it has his name engraved on it.

Naturally, it turns out that Guillermo barely has a scratch from the bullet. Dr. Max tells Los Burke to go find Beatriz. He says that if she opens her mouth and tells anyone that she has seen Hugo de Medina, they'll all be in trouble.

Ester refused to let any of Jeremias' things out of the house and nothing that Rebeca, Hercules or Lucas says can change her mind.

Duarte, Alcides, Arturo and his men are following the trail of the carriage. Duarte splits the men into two groups and warns them not to shoot unless he says so. Alcides tells Arturo to tell his men to turn the hijacker in to the police if they find him. He wants to know who is behind this.

Hugo orders the carriage to stop and makes Paquito and the women get down. Paquito tells Hugo that he is a journalist and wants to know more about the robber's exciting life. Does he have a moniker - the Falcon? the Shadow? Hugo says that he is just a thief. Soledad says that she doesn't believe it and demands that Hugo show his face. At that moment, the pursuit arrives and Hugo starts shooting at them. Hugo escapes the pursuit on foot. Soledad has taken cover with the other women and Paquito. She says that the has to follow and and find out who the man is and goes after him. [This is a typical crazy stunt of Soledad.] She heads across a field ignoring a sign that says, "Danger - Mine."

Boris hears shots as he comes to meet Hugo. Paquito, Marina and Úrsula surrender to the police. Duarte asks where Soledad is and they tell him that she went towards the mine. Boris is watching. Duarte is angry that Arturo's men started shooting without his authorization. He tells Arturo and his men to leave.

Running through the forest looking for Hugo, Beatriz finds Alcides.

Hugo is out of breath and stops to rest behind some trees. He sees Soledad approach and then go into the mine. "What is she doing?" he asks, "Why did she go into the mine?"

Labels: la traicion

Hello to all. Since I have to leave at a ridiculous hour of the morning (and still look good) and next week is just as bad so it’d be pointless to trade, I will be doing the recap in 2 parts: one now, another tonight in the afternoon/early evening with any grammar corrections I might have made (I hope that doesn’t throw too much of a monkey wrench since there is no episode tonight). Now, on with the show.

Episode 51 – We start with yesterday’s portion in which Jorge and Alberto discuss the pros and cons of Santi becoming Jorge’s heir. Sofia enters and starts needling Jorge to hurry him up and threatening to go with the chisme to the archbishop. Al questions how this will affect Whoresula, Jorge says Sofi has her way of looking at things and that some of it actually makes some sense.

Back at Chez Ric, Cami tells Ric her concern that Al will find Bernabe, and thus the letter. Ric says he hopes the authorities will be their usual procrastinating selves and that Mario will beat them to the puch. He then confers with MMM (Main Man Mario) who says he got the 411 from Ascanio. He doesn’t really know the lay of the land, but he’ll manage, then he’ll track Bernie down and open up a can of whoopass ‘till he fesses up.

At Chez Santi, Grita kvetches about always being out of the loop and starts asking Ofelia who raped her, saying she has a right to now what’s eating up her hubby. Ofelia tells her that she doesn’t have to answer. Honestly, the nerve of that b#$%h nagging her poor mother in law about getting raped. We’re not talking about the family tortilla recipe here. It’s kinda personal! Anywhoo, her long list of possible candidates is interrupted by Ramona who tells Ofi that Ascanio is there to see her. Over by the kitchen, Ascanio tells Ofi that Santi doesn’t like being Jorge’s kid after the Cami incident. She asks what he thinks about her. He says Santi’s a just guy and he’ll come around. He’s gone off to the Monte Carmelo mission to contemplate his navel and make sense of things. Alas, Grita hears the whole thing and just about starts doing cartwheels at the thought that her hubby is the heir apparent to the Don of San Fer. Now, on to the new stuff.

Over at the pub named “La Paloma “ (the dove), Al tells Gonzalo to simmer down, and that if he’s told anyone about their “business” deals, he and his dad are both dead men. Gonzo gets upset ‘cause his dad has nothing to do with this. Al says he doesn’t car, and remember that he keeps his promises (or threats in this case). He tells Gonzo to lay low and not to do any “burradas” (stupid things, like a donkey/dunce would do). Even if Jorge has Gonzo on a short leash, Al can sweet-talk him into forgiving Gonzo’s little tiffs. Gonzo complains that Jorge made a lot of promises he didn’t keep. Al says, “Man proposes, God decides” and tells him to be patient. He says it’s in his best interest to stay in the good graces of the Señor of his hometown. Gonzo than says Jorge promised him Camila. Al reminds him that Camila is now married, and if Jorge couldn’t get past her hubby, there’s no way Gonzo will. He throws one of his handy money pouches on the table and walks away laughing. Gonzo then muses to himself, “we’ll see who can do more, your Señor of San Fernando, or me.” He then starts yelling at his fellow patrons for causing a racket.

Now at Chez Alberto, Manuela practices calligraphy while telling her dueña (can’t remember the woman’s name) the chisme that Santi is Jorge’s kid. She tells her that Ursula told her about it, and that Jorge had forbid Ursula from going out or getting visitors. Dueña asks why, and Manuela explains he must have gotten wind that Whoresula was after Santi. She crosses herself at her chasing her own brother, and Manuela calmly explains that Ursula didn’t know it at the time. Dueña tells her that family is cursed!

Back at Chez Ric, our hero tells Pablo how if he doesn’t find his money, he’ll have no choice but to go back to sea. Pablo says ya gotta do what ya gotta do, and Ric says that’s not what he wanted. He’d hoped to buy a plantation and transfer the folks from La Iguana there, give them a decent life. Pablo remarks that would have been nice. Ric laments that if Tim’s testament is overturned via the ED letter, he won’t have enough money to repay the money she’s spent and she’ll get thrown in jail! He laments that it seems that every time he tries to leave that life something happens that forces him to stay. It’s like a curse! Wait a minute, didn’t I just see this in the “Godfather” movie everyone wants to forget?

Over by the church, Don Agustin (da priest) tells Ofelia that Al was there when he told Jorge he was a proud papa. Ofi wants to know what Jorge will do, and Agustin says he thinks he will do his duty and recognize Santi as his son. Ofi says Santi won’t like that, and neither will she. He asks her where the lad is. She tells him Ascanio told her Monte Carmelo for a few days. He says he hopes that The Lord will show him the right path to follow. Ofi cries that he resents her. Padre suggests that he pray to the Virgin Mary. She was a mother too, and she will influence Santi’s heart to forgive Ofi. Now, if ya don’t mind, I got to go give the last rights to Don Eusebio. She is surprised by this. He says, “see, some sorrows are greater than yours.” He gives her his blessing and goes off.

Camila is in her room holding a book and sighing about dust in love. Jimena enters and asks her what’s going on. Cami tells her she’s been reading a poetry book that she found among Ricardo’s things. She points to a poem and Jime walks away with it and says aah (which is funny ‘cause I seem to recall she can’t read). Cami laughs and tells her this poem talks about how “even if he dies, and his bones turn to dust, it will be dust in love.” Jime smiles and says “can you imagine feeling something so strong?” Cami says her love for Ric is like that. She will love him forever and after this life.

A very large Grita runs to Chez Justo to bring Ines some great news (good where? Planet Reebok?) She asks about Vasco and Justo, and Ines tells her they’re at the mill and resting respectively. So, spill it. Rita says guess who’s kid Santi is. Rita says duh? My mom and dad’s. Rita says, mom’s yes, but not your dad’s. Ines asks what she’s insinuating. Rita says Santi is the son of Jorge Mancera. Ines says that’s not true. Rita says sure, she heard Ascanio and Ofi talking about it and that prior to that she’d overheard Ofi tell Santi someone raped her. Ofi denied it was Jorge, but Rita thinks he took his “first night” rights and now her hubby is the son of the Señor of San Fernando! Ines asks if Santi knows and Rita says yeah, he went to some retreat in Monte Carmelo. Ines tells Rita that she doesn’t know what she’s so happy about. Can’t you see what this will do to him. He’ll die of anger and pain! Rita says, yeah, yeah, ‘cause Whorehey boinked Cami.... Ines adds: and he raped our mother! Rita dismisses it and says it was a long time ago and he needs to get over it and think about his family, about the baby, about you guys, about ME! If Jorge recognizes him, when he dies, Santi can be the new Lord of the Land. Ines yells “what about his pain?” “what about the shame of knowing his dad raped the woman he was going to marry and his own mother?” Rita says she could care less about Cami and the Ofi thing is a shame, but that’s life. Ines finally tells her to shut up, ‘cause if she keeps talking so selfishly and shamelessly she’ll forget she’s pregnant and slap her around. Then she stomps off. Rita can’t believe Ines would talk to her like that. I mean “who does she think she is?” Looks like Rita’s already wearing the imaginary crown of ‘Señora de San Fernando’ and can’t imagine that others don’t see it. Man, don’t you just want to punch her lights out?

Back at chez Ric, Fran tells Lis over breakfast that if Al finds the ED letter, he’ll probably hold on to giving it to her until she agrees to formally announcing their engagement. Lis says she’ll try to stretch it out and Tia Fran warns that Al is not the kind of man who will take the stretching things out. Lis screams that she doesn’t want to marry Al. Not him or not anyone. Fran says she knows, anyone but Ric, but he’s married even if the marriage means bubkas. “When you get to be my age, alone, without a husband or children, you’ll realize how silly you’re being now. Can’t you see you can’t pass up this opportunity? How many men have shown interest in you? None! And how many do you think you’ll bump into of Don Alberto’s class?” Lis replies she’s not ready to give up just yet. Ric walks in and asks Fran what she was doing at Al’s this morning. Fran quickly says that she went to see Manuela ‘cause she’s come to see them so many times and it’s not their turn. Lis was going to come but she wasn’t feeling wel... Ric interrupts telling her not to lie. He knows Manuela left shortly after she got there and that she stayed for a while talking to LaFont. Fran complains that now he’s having her followed and he says: Yes, if it’s necessary. She asks Lis if she should tell him. Lis asks what? She says: what Al wants, to marry you. Lis interjects that she doesn’t want to marry Al, she swears. Ric says fine. If that’s her decision he’ll back her up. Then he storms off leaving a very angry Lis asking Fran why she told him that. Fran says she had no choice. Ric is no fool and she couldn’t risk him finding out about the letter. Lis complain that Fran ratted her out to save her own skin and Fran explains that it’s THEIR skin. Lis reminds her that she didn’t want her talking to Al and Fran says they couldn’t just leave it out there. Who else was going to help them? Lis says she doesn’t want to have to marry him and Fran tells that she might as well forget getting her father’s money back. She storms out and leaves Lis calling her name out. This is especially cruel since poor Lis now starts wandering through the house looking for her.

Well, this is definitely later than early evening! Sorry ;(

And now, on to part II:

Over at Cami’s room, Jimena tells her that Mario is very smart and surely he will get to the letter. Cami reminds her that Ascanio already tried, and Jimena says, yeah, but he was trying to be nice about it, whereas Mario will probably rip the cousins guts out. Cami is horrified at the thought and Jimena says Cami must think they’re in a world of Saints. Everyone kills and steals. Even Jorge & Al who give themselves all those airs are a bunch of thieves. Oh and by the by, do you realize you’re castrating your husband? Cami is impactada, and Jimena explains that Ric needs money and Cami is keeping him from making more. Cami says it’s ‘cause she doesn’t want him to go back to his old life. Can’t he just get a job? Jimena asks if she thinks that getting a job, like Ascanio did, will be enough for such a huge man as Ric. Do you want him to be unhappy? Besides, too many people depend on him: Mario, Pablo, Jesus, and a whole slew of others. What’s Ric supposed to tell them? Sorry folks, you’ll have to use your own nails for scratching. At this point, Lis walks by, still looking for tía, and Cami tells her she’s not there. Jimena comments that Lis gives her shivers.

Lis makes her way to the courtyard where she finally trips. Lucky for her, sexy Ric is there to help her up. He tells her that Fran is over in the orchard and he can walk her there. Lis says she’d rather talk to Ric instead. She complains to him that he originally came to SF to help them get dad’s money back; but now he’s doing nothing because he liked the widow. Ric sighs and tells her that he told them from the beginning that if Tim decided to leave Cami his money, that was his choice. Lis says Cami wrapped Tim up because she’s a “mañosa” (a trickster). Ric replies that Cami is no mañosa and Lis replies that she bewitched her dad and now she’s bewitched Ric. Ric replies that he doesn’t believe in those things, even if some of his buddies do. She cries that the money was hers, and Ric’s. He asks what she’s getting at and she tells him to leave Cami. She’s only with him for money, not because she loves him (faulty logic when you consider that Cami has the money, but there ya have it). Ric replies that Cami does love him. Lis tells him he’s wrong; and sooner or later he’ll realize that the only woman that truly loves him and will never betray him is herself. Then she starts feeling him up (eek!), and then mercifully (for us) walks away.

We return from commercials to find Cami cleaning up some Rose petals in her room (where the heck did they come from?) and Ric walking in. She tells him that Jimena told her that she’s been castrating him. He makes the cutest mortified face and says: “Holy God, I hope not!” She laughs and tells him she means that she (Cami) doesn’t want him to return to what he used to do. He tells her that their world is difficult, cruel and violent. Cami got to see it when she got kidnapped. The war that has been waged between the powers for many years is spiteful and full of “garrapiña” (This usually refers to “garrapiñar” which means to sugar coat or caramelize. But I found it as another word for “garrafiñar,” which means to take away by grabbing. I’m guessing they meant this one.) and a struggle over a territory. Her people are lucky because it doesn’t reach them. But in the islands and the coasts, there is destruction and death. People loose their homes and possessions. Mothers loose their sons and wives their husbands. For those in the sea, it is terrible. It is merciless and without contemplations. But as they were saying, he will have to return to his life sooner or later whether he likes it or not. He says he’s been meaning to tell her something. When it’s about feelings, sometimes people won’t speak and become cowards. Camila can’t imagine Ric as a coward. He says it would be out of fear of losing what matters the most to him, the only thing, which is Cami. She tells him to spill it already! He explains that he rushed things because of Mancera. She says she remembers he wanted to wait until he followed Gaspar’s instructions. He says yes, to get his pardon. This would imply other things. He asks her if she ever wondered how a wanted man like himself, who could be punished by death, would show up in her town using his real name? She asks for an explanation. He explains that he used a false identity. Ric was his baptismal name, but he is actually Ricardo de Salamanca. She asks who she married then? He tells her he used another person’s documents. She blurts out as she realizes that they are not married, she’s actually his “querida” (mistress, kept woman, girl on the side, etc.). She asks how he could do this to her? He lied to her, her father, the entire town. He says her dad forced his hand because it was a desperate situation. She tells him not to blame her dad for this. He tells her he’s not blaming her dad, he considered it necessary. At any rate, he doesn’t think of her as his mistress or his lover, but as his wife. She reminds him they are not married and he says they are because his oath at the altar was sincere and came from his heart. She says no, she will not be his mockery. As she starts grabbing clothes out of draweres, she says she understood and accepted that he was a freebooter, but she will not live in “amaciato” (the closest word I found was “amación” which means enamored or in passionate love. I’m guessing it’s another word for living as married. Either that or I misheard) with a man who would tell her such a horrendous lie. He tries to explain that he wanted to tell her, but was afraid she’d react this way. She says he was right to be afraid. He made her think she was his wife and he says she IS because he loves her. She tells him if he loved her, he wouldn’t have subjected her to such shame, he would have told her the truth. He says things happened too fast: Her dad’s illness, the taking of the concessions, Mancera’s pernada demands. She says she would have preferred it. It would have been less painful than realizing he lied to her. Come to think of it, maybe there is no Don Gaspar. Maybe he married her because he was left without any money and figured he’d live at her expense. He says she can’t possibly believe that and she says she does because it’s what she sees. He gives up and says if that’s what she thinks, then has nothing else to say. He exits as Cami hugs her clothes and bursts into tears.

We now see Ric looking through the window as Cami goes off in the carriage. Cleo the chismosa also watches and runs to tell Lis and Fran. They speculate it could be a trip, or Ric is sending her ahead and plans to join her somewhere. Cleo says she doubts it because he didn’t even say goodbye. Lis and Fran do an internal happy dance. Lis goes to Ric’s room and asks if Cami left on a trip. He tells her no, he told her he’s Salamanca and she left him. Lis asks if Cami will turn him in and he says she won’t because she loves him. Lis reminds him hell hath no fury like a woman scorned. She then tells him she’s afraid, let’s run off somewhere! He says he can’t because he has things to do. She says all his comings and goings have her worried. Is he planning an assault on Veracruz City with his buddies? He tells her he’s not; but the success in his commission will determine his future. She asks him to tell her about it. He says he can’t because he no longer trusts her. She begs him not to mistrust her and tells him she loves him too much to do anything that would hurt him. She bursts into tears and he reluctantly hugs her.

Over at the palace, Ursula asks Sofia what her interest is in having Santi recognized. Sofi tells her it would insure an heir to be the new SSF (Señor de San Fernando). Ursu replies that’s why she’s getting married and it’s only fair that her son becomes the new SSF. Sofi says if Ursu has a boy they can see. But until then, Jorge has a right to take some precautions. Ursu complains that this is all Sofi’s doing and it’s because she hates Ursu and wants Jorge to recognize Santi so he can replace her. Sofi says those are not her intentions. She does love Ursu, but she feels that after all these years of the townsfolk having to deal with Jorge’s abuses they deserve a good and just ruler. Ursu asks where that leaves her. Will she have to share with the bastard and his wife the maid and his mom the midwife? Fortunata, who’s been there the whole time, interjects they hadn’t thought about this and asks Sofi if Santi would move to the palace with his whole family. Ursu asks if they can imagine the “runfla” (a gang, or just a bunch of people) of plebians filling the palace. And Santi’s wife is pregnant and it will be worse when the baby’s born. She says Sofi just wants revenge on Jorge because he no longer loves her and on Ursu because she didn’t turn sour and bitter like Sofi. But she’s not putting up with it, and she stabs the bread with a knife for emphasis before she runs out. Fortunata turns to Sofi and asks if there was any truth in what Ursu said. Sofi says in parts. She does love her in spite of her character and defects. Besides, she’s her daughter, she gave birth to her. But she was also sincere when she spoke of the people. Fortu says that Jorge’s not a bad ruler, the people respect him. Sofi says it’s ‘cause they fear him, because he’s a despot that recognizes no law but his own. He runs over, abuses, destroys families, destroys lives. Fortu points out Sofi won’t forgive what he did to Justo and Sofi says no. He took advantage of and old and sick man because of his lechery in wanting to sleep with his daughter. This cannot be forgiven even by God. Fortu says fine, but that’s not Ursu’s fault. Sofi points out that she’s too much like her dad. The people are tired of having an unjust libertine for a ruler, and for them to fall in the hands of a woman who’s depraved and capricious would just be too much.

The carriage arrives at Chez Camila, and a happy and surprised Candida greets Cami who goes crying to her room followed by Jimena. Jim (I kinda like this one for her) tells Cami she’s making a huge mistake. Who cares what his name is?! She loves him and he loves her, end of story. Cami says she wouldn’t understand and Jim says of course, ‘cause she’s a donkey, a woman who was born by the stream and knows nothing about decency or any of that. But “good people” like them also hide their refuse. Didn’t she tell her that Vasco had to marry Ines because he boinked her? And what about what Vasco did with Bernie? Did she publish to the four winds how Santi was hounding her, Cami says he didn’t, and Jim continues that he did, but off course the dirty laundry is washed at home. Cami cries out that Ric tricked her to get what he wanted, to make her his mistress because pirates or whatever they want to call themselves have no morals, or law or religion, and to them it’s all the same: shacking up or stealing a woman or romancing her and that’s what he did, he romanced her and she fell for him like an idiot. Jim says fine, what are you gonna do tomorrow? What will you say when people figure out you left your husband’s house? Are you gonna tell them it’s because you discovered he’s Ricardo de Salamanca, a pirated known as El Antillano? Cami pouts and says “Maybe.” Then cries into her pillow.

It’s now nighttime as Vasco arrives at Chez Justo and Ines asks why he’s so late? She thought he was only going to the mill. Did he go to see Santi? He says no, someone broke in and stole a bunch of sacks of grain. He and Jeremías took up a new inventory and lost track of time, even though he’s famished. She starts to serve him dinner as he asks about his dad. She says he’s fine and you won’t believe who came over? Your sister Rita. He asks how she’s doing and Ines replies that she saw her quite improved. “Do you know what she told me? That my brother is the son of Jorge Mancera. She said she overheard mother and Ascanio talking about it and that if Don Jorge recognizes him, he could be the future SSF. I didn’t dare talk to my mother because I figured she’d be very upset with the news and according to Rita, Don Jorge forced her. She heard her talking about it with Ascanio.” Vasco asks if Ascanio’s home and she says yes. Vasco starts to go in the house and Rita tells him to wait until tomorrow. She couldn’t bring herself to ask him and Ascanio went straight to his room and was very serious, didn’t even have supper. Vasco mulls it over and says he can’t believe it. Wonder if he’ll recognize him? Rita looks worried. I wonder if it’s over the situation or over the fact that her hubby is almost as cold about it as his crazy sister. Maybe it came from Mom.

Sexy bedroom shot of a shirtless Ric brooding. Alternating shot of Cami sitting in bed crying, taking off her wedding ring and looking at it. The two shots take turns until Camila finally puts the ring back on and kisses it.

Next morning, Vasco goes to the forge looking for Ascanio. He asks him why he left the house so early. He says he woke up and just went straight there. Vasco asks if Santi’s home and Ascanio asks why. Vasco explains that Rita went over and told Ines that Santi is Mancera’s bastard and wants to know if it’s true. Ascanio is uncomfortable. The poor man is one of the few that can actually keep a secret around here! Vasco tells him that he knows Ascanio knows so don’t pretend. Ascanio says it’s true. Vasco asks where Santi is and Ascanio tells him Monte Carmelo. Vasco comments that with how much Santi hates Jorge, it must have landed like a kick from a mule. He asks Ascanio how this all came to light and Ascanio looks pensive.

Ric is dressed again (sigh) sitting at his desk writing a letter to his padrino. He writes that unfortunately, he hasn’t been able to get any evidence, but he is convinced that one of the bands of robbers is captained by the SSF. On another issue, he would like to learn about the possibility of lending his services to the Spanish crown. It is vital that he obtain his pardon because if he can’t achieve it, his life will cease to have a reason. As he leaves his room, he runs into Lis. She tells him to come with her because she wants to show him something, in her room. He looks uncomfortable and asks why she can’t just tell him. She says he has to see. She takes him to the strongbox and tells him she had it make to store valuable things. She wasn’t able to rescue too many of her father’s jewels, and it’s not like they had a lot of money, but here it is. She opens the big box and there is a smaller box inside filled with gold coins. She asks if he remembers the money they once found on his mother’s doorstep. Ric has a flashback to asking Cami if she knew anything about it and her telling him she doesn’t know what he’s talking about. He tells her she’s a terrible liar, and that’s one of the things he likes about her. Back in the present (ok, theirs, not ours) Lis tells Ric that it’s his. He thanks her, but says he has no intention of touching it, and don’t worry about him. She says of course she’ll worry. He has no money, and she’s offering it with all her heart. Ric says no, but thanks. He leaves and she slowly comes to her knees with tears down her cheeks with surprisingly little drama.

Ric finally makes it to courtyard where he tells Pablo he wants him and Jesus to be ready ‘cause tonight they are going to go see if the caravan gets attacked. Pablo asks “Just the three of us?” Ric assures him they will do nothing, just observe and see if they recognize anyone. Pablo smiles and says good (probably having no desire to meet with the same guys that he saw when he got stabbed!). Ric asks if they installed his wife and if Pablo heard anything between her and Jim. Pablo says he wouldn’t know if they said anything inside the carriage, but when they exited they were both very serious. He asks if they had a problem and Ric shooshes him. Pablo says allright.

A carriage arrives at Monte Carmelo with Ofelia, who asks the driver to wait for her. She makes her way past the poor and kisses the priests hand. She then enters and sees Santi in the courtyard reading. She asks how he is and he says he’s calmer. He asks how she is and she says worried about him. He tells her not to worry and they hug.

Next episode:

Mario and Foreman discuss how Ric got married. Foreman tells Mario that he was planning to visit Ric in SF. Ominous music plays. Maybe Mario will have to change his plans to warn Ric. Cami runs into Ric. Will they reconcile? All will be known on Friday.

Labels: Pasion