Caray, Caray!

-Charles Schulz

The first "new" scene we get today is Valeria sitting in her room crying and remembering her night of hot monkey love with Rocky among the tires. At the end of the flashback we see that Rocky is thinking about it too and frustrated that he can't see her. Awwwww.

The time has come, the Walrus said, to talk of many things. Of shoes, and ships, and sealing wax, of cabbages and kings. And why Mili left Alejandro at the altar. He tries to distract her by asking which of the other two lunkheads she was going to pick, since he's sure it wasn't going to be him. He runs through Hugo's faults and misdeeds (for more information please see previous recaps). Then he rags on Mateo for only being madly in love with Mili once she inherited Regina's money. Then he reminds her he's the only guy who would rather die than not have her. He doesn't want to talk, but eventually he says, "Fine, tell me what's so important."

Constancio can't find Luciana and no one knows where she is. The ever-helpful Karla says she went out quite a while ago not a little drunk. Karla points out that this is the perfect time to look for those incriminating photos. Constancio tells her to act as lookout while he starts rummaging.

Luciana sneaks out of bed with a nookie-knocked-out Nestor (say that ten times fast) and searches through his stuff until she finds a slip of paper that says where Alejandro is…or at least I suppose that's what it says. Why she does this in slow motion is beyond me.

Mili shows Alejandro the medal and explains to him, rather slowly, as if he were kind of airheaded (which, well, probably not a bad idea) that here's her medal…the medal that her mom put on her before she died…and the Virgen de la Soledad is on it…and granny used to pray to the V de S…and there are initials on it…her daddy's initials. "CBL" Alejandro reads. Constancio Belmonte Lascurain, Mili explains, "you and I are siblings." oops. First Alejandro is in denial, thinking those initials could belong to anyone. Then he just refuses to believe it. Mili says she's the lost grandchild of Regina, daughter of Rosario, who Constancio dumped to marry Luciana. "My mother died of pain and ever since I found out we have the same blood I feel like I'm dying!" She tells him she loves him with her whole soul and will never love anyone else like that. She tells him that Luciana is the one who told her, which he thinks means it could be a lie. Mili nixes that idea, since the God Squad also knew about it. I'm waiting for Alejandro to use his two brain cells to realize that Padre Manuel wouldn't have agreed to set up a romantic kidnapping by the beach if he knew that Mili and Alejandro were related. Instead he walks off to collapse in the sand and do his audition scene for the next Incredible Hulk movie. No, really, sorry to bust up such an emotional scene, but go back and check out the veins he's got going on. This time, Mili's "I'm crying like I've been punched in the stomach" cry actually seems appropriate.

Luciana sneaks out of the room with her clothes on and her little slip of paper in her purse.

Mili approaches Alejandro again. He finally understands why Mili took off the way she did. Mili says neither she nor Luciana wanted him to suffer. She talks about how Regina died right after. Mili lets him know that Regina found out the truth before she died. Then they both cry over how they miss Regina. Mili tells Alejandro that Constancio's known almost since Mili started working there. Alejandro curses him and asks if Mili has confronted him yet. Mili tells him that Constancio is never to know. Mili blames him for her mother dying (again) and for Regina dying. Alejandro blames him for what he and Mili are going through. Mili laments that nobody told them anything before things got "so far." Oh, come on, they kissed a bunch and slept in the same bed, fully clothed, one night. That doesn't exactly guarantee you a one-way ticket to hell. Mili starts in on how Constancio must pay. I vote the two of them go back to DF and announce that they're married and Mili's pregnant and see how many people keel over. Certainly at that point somebody would step forward with the truth, right?

Constancio crawls around on the bedroom floor and then decides there's a better place too look for the photos.

Mili and Alejandro walk along the beach. He says again that now he understands why she was acting like she did. Mili again says she didn't want him to suffer too. Alejandro tells her that he cancelled the wedding with Florencia because he doesn't love her like he loves Mili. He says he'll never be happy, not without her. They decide to go back to DF, but not until tomorrow, since it's late. Mili says it's too bad their dream turned into a nightmare.

Karla and Constancio look in the green house. Constancio finds the pictures and rips up all but one--since it came out good. Karla tries to get him to show her the pictures, but he won't. She reminds him to thank her in cash, like always. Socorro walks in and hears that last bit, gets the wrong idea (but not that wrong) and smacks Karla a good one across the face. They both try to tell her she's mistaken, but Socorro won't hear it. Karla throws it in her face that her dad abandoned them. She asks if it's because he was a married man and then stalks off. Socorro threatens to tell Luciana if Constancio lays a hand on Karla again. Constancio hands her a wad of cash…cause "women always resolve problems by going shopping." Socorro tells him she'll accept it if he can tell her where to buy dignity, otherwise…she tears up the bills and throws them at him.

Back at the Love Shack, Deluxe Edition, Mili and Alejandro both agree they're not going to be able to sleep tonight. Alejandro offers Mili the indoors of the cabin and says he'll sleep somewhere else. He tries to say things will look better in the morning, but Mili can't see how. After he shuts the doors he starts walking toward the pool and I wonder if he's going to drown himself. He does this bizarre sideways fall into the pool, which doesn't help, but then I can see he's swimming, not sinking. He cries some more after he surfaces. Too bad these two are surrounded by liars.

The next morning, Constancio screams at Luciana. Luciana won't tell him where she was. Constancio insults her about her drinking. Luciana is hung over. We've seen this scene before, right? Luciana doesn't think he's going to win the elections, so he can quit complaining that she's ruining his chances. Luciana blames her drinking on having to live with Constancio. Blah, blah, blah. I forget which one says it's the other's fault the kids are screwed up, but Constancio says Valeria will get over the chauffeur. Luciana asks what about Alejandro, then remembers that Constancio doesn't care and goes into the bathroom. Constancio agrees that he doesn't care, but he sure would like to know what's up with Alejandro. Metiche. During the blah, blah, blah, he calls her a "teporocha" which doesn't have a direct translation, but basically he's calling her a drunk…again.

When Luciana finally comes downstairs, Braulio tells her that Domingo Echavarria is waiting for her. Socorro tries to talk to her, but Luciana rudely dismisses her. When Braulio tries to ask Socorro what's up, she tells him not to be metiche.

Mili wakes up at the Love Shack, Deluxe Edition, in yesterday's dress (and looking like it). She wakes up Alejandro, who apparently fell asleep on the couch outside, but not until dawn. She tells him she didn't sleep all night. Alejandro says he couldn't stop thinking all night about what she told him. He's going to take a shower, then they're going to the airport…but wait! Alejandro remembers that Padre Manuel said they have to wait for Nestor. Mili wants to call home, but Alejandro says that Padre Manuel is taking care of it. Alejandro says they'll wait for Nestor and go back with him. They sit there looking awkward and not being able to look at each other.

Domingo tells Luciana that Alejandro cancelled the wedding. Luciana blames it on Mili. Braulio announces Florencia. She comes in crying to Luciana that Alejandro is with Mili. She's surprised to see her father there. Domingo is pissed that he hasn't heard about "that servant" before. Florencia cries that if she loses Alejandro, she'll die. Domingo hugs her and says he'll take care of it. Luciana, that sleazy classist ho, very pointedly tells Domingo that Alejandro won't be free of his "crazy" while Mili exists. Domingo gets the message. So does Florencia, who is horrified, although she doesn't ask him not to do it. Luciana hands over the address and tells Domingo to hurry. He calls for his private jet and then leaves. Luciana hugs Florencia and makes an evil face behind her back. I have nothing nice to say about either one of them.

Mili and Alejandro are eating breakfast. Mili has named the dog Lagrimita (little tears) since that's all she's seen since they got there. Alejandro brought her a new, snazzy ball cap as a present for the trip. Alejandro tries to suggest that they run away somewhere where no one knows them and stay together, that they pretend they don't know they're brother and sister. She's already freaking out, but then he kisses her and she goes right over the edge and goes running, calling for the dog.

Hugo and Mateo go to Padre Manuel looking for Mili. PM won't give them any information. The guys get mean and threatening. Sor Cachete saves his bacon, saying that Mili called from her aunt's house in Michoacan to say that she's worried because she hasn't seen Alejandro since yesterday. Hugo and Mateo don't buy it.

Lina and Gloria compare notes. Hugo and Mateo are asking about Mili and Alejandro's bed hasn't been slept in. Socorro tries to get info out of them, but they deny knowing anything. Karla, of course, comes in and spouts a bunch of crap about how now that Mili has money she doesn't want to hang out with Lina and Gloria. Socorro tells Karla to shut it, especially after what happened yesterday, but then she won't tell Lina and Gloria what happened yesterday.

Mili has a grumpy, frustrated walk on the beach. Alejandro goes frantically looking for her. She walks some more, this time I think trying to get away from the house. Nestor shows up. Alejandro comes back to the house, frantic. Nestor's not worried about Mili being missing. He wants to wait for Mili to come back before he talks to them both. Alejandro wants to know what it's about. Nestor says that he loved Luciana way back when, etc. Alejandro doesn't get it. Nestor says it's about a secret he can't keep keeping.

Milagros runs into a guy with a gun, who grabs her around the throat, points a gun at her head, and stuffs her in the back of a jeep. There's another guy in the jeep helping him. Domingo is there too and he tells a bound and gagged Milagros that she's now going to learn that you don't mess with the family of Domingo Echavarria.

So, who wins the rat bastard race tonight? Constancio, Luciana, or Domingo?

My DVR cut off, so I don't know what's coming tomorrow, except that Alejandro sees something on the beach that makes him take off running.

Labels: guapos

Buenas noches a todos. How many of our readers are still watching this telenovela? I bet it’s not many…and for good reasons too! I was sort of watching last night when I came to the conclusion that the manuscript for this program probably reads well on paper, but when acted out and “performed” there is a lot missing, like the credibility factor for example. That’s why FELS would make a nice addition to the Danielle Steele library, and should not be anywhere near the Televisa Vault.

But, the show must go on…!

Now, before I start, I want to tell Adela Noriega that wearing Granny’s youthful dresses has been out of style for so long that it never was in style. For crying out loud, she looks like she could be on “Little House on the Prairie.” And another thing, why is she always type-casted as the anemic, helpless, damsel-in-distress who never has an opinion and never feels/looks comfortable? On the same note: why is Eddie Y. always the lovable loser? He obviously doesn’t have any real acting skills. Oh Nick, you're so bad!

Enough off-color commentary.

Gabby’s mad that our friends at the asylum couldn’t keep Gramps in his cell. The “doctor” guy sends his goonies to go find him.
We see Gramps rolling along in the wilderness, then BOOM! He falls out of his chair. LifeAlert! LifeAlert! "I've fallen and I can't get up." It’s a shame that he doesn’t have a Hoveround; you can take those things from the Statue of Liberty to the Grand Canyon--all on one over-night battery charge! "Now I'm free to see the world!"

The little boy/ Juan’s prodigy is talking to his Grandma (where have we seen her before?). He’s upset that Luis (Rosario’s son) is mistreated by his keeper. She tells him not go around that Luis kid. By the way, they live in a cardboard house, and I will venture to say that Pablito built the foundation.

So Juan’s maid, I forget her name, is telling Juan how the whole town was asking about him and how he’s so good. She also thinks that Sofia and he make a nice pair. She, the bull in the China shop, keeps hitting Juan. “Sarry, sarry, sarry” she says; she loves to speak English. Juan gets mad that she moved the picture of Libia. I don’t think she likes the competition.

In a machismo moment, we see Fernie’s goonies meeting with the city-slickers of the town. As we know, they want to open a pleasure joint in town. Fernie’s friends don’t like this idea.

This should be interesting. Juan is in his sister’s cave. He brings her a toy and thanks her for letting Sofia and he live. As if she has the supernatural power to control the lives of mortals... He confesses that he’s uneasy about the relationship because she’s married. Why didn’t he think about this before he consummated his undying love to Sofia in that stable? Well, anyway, he’s scrupulous so he doesn’t want anyone to harm her.
Sofia, for once, is showing emotion. She’s happy that Juan and she are in love. She says it’s much more that what a document can bind; it’s magical. She confesses to the Padre that she made herself Juan’s that night. She continues on her rant of how much they love each other, blah, blah, blah. (Sorry about this, but that’s all it is. Just know that I would tell you if it were important, but it’s not, so I won’t.) Meanwhile, the Padre is, well, thinking. She asks if he will forgive them and he says of course. What does he care? It’s just a marriage.

At the Hacienda, Fernie is mad that Sofia was with the bricklayer. Gabby rationally points out that Father Tadeo was with them. He still doesn’t like it. She doesn’t care, so she moves on. She says that she’s not going to some party in town, but Fernie is. Then he asks her what the deal is with Gramps and those “papers.” She calls the “doctor” incapable because Gramps escaped.

James Bond time. Gramps is stretched out on the ground in front of his wheel chair. In the distance are the asylum goonies. A dog approaches Gramps and starts to bark. Apparently the goonies don’t hear this (I don’t know how they couldn’t) and Gramps is safe for now…

Padre confesses to Sofia that he has a secret that he learned in confession, and therefore he understands why she doesn’t love Fernie. He continues to tell her that he sent a letter to his superiors asking for permission to leak the information he learned in confession. Sofia is ebullient and goes on a rant about how brave she is and how she will be patient.
I swear that scenes like this send us into a time warp. Tadeo sent this letter weeks ago, and he still hasn’t heard anything. It’s ridiculous that they don’t communicate by, a phone maybe, or even by using some federal mail service. I hate to tell you, but Pablito and Mariachi won’t cut it for mail deliveries.

Pablito, whom we saw moments ago, comes upon Gramps. Gramps, in a desperate attempt, asks for his help. It seems that Pablito is informing on Gramps. “Traitor” he yells.

Speaking of desperate attempts (to raise the ratings), Juan is in the shower. As we all know, everyone takes showers with the curtains wide open and their backs to the water. Notice how they display his body, perfectly avoiding his… southernly parts. Anyway, the shower is where Juan thinks best, thus he remembers Sofia and their past encounters.

Surprisingly enough, little Pablito pulled through for Gramps and saved the day. He planned a diversion by telling the goonies that he saw a snake. “I know those guys; they’re strong, but they’re pretty stupid” he says. Gramps was worried that Pablito was going to rat him out, and admires his skills. Thus, he makes him an honorary General, and Mariachi, the dog, and honorary soldier. Gramps is raising an army!!!

How did the cabaña get so big? I won’t even start… Anyway, Oscar and Franco are “working” until they see the city-slickers. Oscar is worried that the one sissy guy will steal Jimena. As always, the money conversation comes up. Oscar admits he loves Jimena and that he loves her money too. He’s not about to lose it all to that guy. (Did he ever have it?) If he only knew that the one guy is gay…

The new recruits are transporting Gramps to safety. This is too funny! Gramps is telling Pablito that he knows talent/bravery when he sees it, and Pablito has it. The plan is to take Gramps home with little Pablito to live in secret with his grandma and he. Gramps asks if there is any shelter where he can hide. Pablito thinks…

The city-slickers are talking to Gabby. They want to take the girls to some party in town. Gabby says okay, but the girls can only hang out with the boys, and no one else.

Naturally, the Reyes bros. and company are going to this party. The maid tells them that they have to go to mass first. Franco becomes religious and tells everybody that he loves the Virgencita and he loves to sing to her. Why is this important? I don’t know…

Gramps and team have found a hiding shelter. It’s a cave and it has fresh flowers, but whose could it be? Gramps thanks Pablito for his help and then explores the surrounding area.

We see a full church at mass. Franco is singing to the Virgencita. Everyone is moved by his music. Basically, he sings about how grateful he is for her protection, how much he loves her, and how he has grown so much. It’s a really nice song, sung well by someone, but it’s pretty obvious that he isn’t singing live. And by the way, they say that they can make anyone sound good in a recording studio. It’s so true. Remember Gaviota? Need I say more?

Gabby has turned to drinking. She refuses to go to the mass that honors Sofia and Juan’s return. She doesn’t have to put up with Sofia’s arrogance. Eva tries to persuade Gabby into going for her daughter’s sake. “Don’t tell me how to be a good Christian. I’m much closer to God than you’ll ever be! Now get out of here!” How do you respond to that?

Back at mass, Oscar is talking about how his new-found faith can move mountains and how he is in love, blah, blah, blah. What’s more important here is that Fernie is trying to hold Sofia’s hand, which she doesn’t want to do, and makes Juan uneasy. What was the point of that speech?

General Pablito brings Gramps some water, food, and blankets. They decide that Gramps and Pablito’s Grandma are going to go to a dance together. So what’s the plan? Is Gramps just going to sit outside all day and night and “hide?”

Can I question something? Now, I don’t live in Veracruz, nor have I traveled there, but I’m going to venture to say that no priest is as enthusiastic or involved with one single family as the fictitious Padre Tadeo. Who in the world has a priest who puts all of his energies into securing the safety and comfort of some rich family? For crying out loud, he’s basically at the Elizondo compound every day, and when he’s not there, the girls are talking to him at his place. And then this whole mass thing has been blown completely out of proportion. Are you telling me that every time somebody crosses a river on a rope the whole town meets at a mass and then throws a town-wide party? Credibility factor: 1 Rationale: some of these characters are stupid enough to go along with this.
But anyway, they constructed this altar and are carrying it down the isle. The Reyes bros. proceed to carry it through town, where there are huge celebrations and everyone is happy. There are traditional dancers and a whole lot of love stares. Not to mention some jealousy, but what did you expect?

So this mass/party, not be confused with a massive party, has lasted all day, and now it’s time to dance. Fernie dances with Sofia and stirs up a jealous cocktail of regret within Juan. What was Juan expecting from a married couple? Well, Franco and Oscar’s luck isn’t much better, as they are the ones standing around in the corners. Similarly, Eva, the party-pooper, is in the corner crying. Partner change! Juan takes Sofia from her husband. Nice… Uh oh, time to change again, bye-bye Sofia! That was short-lived; much like their amorous relationship. Juan takes Sofia to the side and says that he can’t live without Sofia. Oh no, Fernie sees them kissing; he’s on the war path. Eva creates a diversion, but it doesn’t work. He knows!

Rosario and Franco are talking. She’s mad because he wants to have two girls at the same time, much like Fernie wants to keep two books at one time. Anyway, she tells him to pick Sarita or her, but not both. She could do much better than Frankie…

Eva tells Sofia to be more careful. Sofia says that she doesn’t usually act like that but she can’t resist because she loves Juan. It’s a clean love, it’s good, and that’s why it’s okay to be a lecherer. Eva reminds her that she lives in a society with rules, and if she doesn’t follow those rules, she could be ruined.

Just like every other telenovela party, there is a fake-wedding booth. Sarita and the city-slicker (Benito) decide to get married right if front of Frankie.

Sofia gets testy when Eva makes her recommendations to cool it. “You’re always talking about how I should learn from your experiences, but what exactly are these experiences?” Eva proceeds to tell Sofia that she lived through an impossible love, but she wasn’t happy because he wasn’t free-he was married. And therefore, there were many problems, some of which she could never correct.

Gabby is looking through the pictures of the other lecherers; a.k.a. Libia and Bernie. May I ask why anyone would write a message to their lover on a picture that was given to them by that lover? Well, anyway, it puts Gabby over the edge and she starts to sob.

Sofia pushes Eva to talk. Eva admits that she was always in love with Sofia’s father. She was always in love with him, and that was her mistake. She drops her drink as Sofia is not really affected. I don’t think Adela learned about this reaction in Televisa Acting School…

Tomorrow: Sofia confronts Fernie on their divorce. He says no, Juan steps in. Rosie and Frankie battle it out…

Labels: Fuego

I haven't quite seen all of today's episodes but I thought I'd post since the scenes with Norma, Juan and the baby were so cute. I guess the real reason for the fence between the Reyes and Elizondo property was so that Juan and Norma could lean on it. I don't know far it is from the Elizondo house to this fence but it is not that easy to carry a baby in your arms very far. Norma should get one of those snugli things or a baby packback. Too bad Norma didn't run into Juan earlier, she just melted into a little puddle when she saw him and all her concerns about not letting him near the baby went out the window. I'm sure it won't be much longer before she is crossing the fence without the baby to be with Juan.

Óscar and Franco having business meetings while Óscar is in his giant bathtub is hysterical. So now Óscar is going to invest in Leandro's dress shop. That should be interesting.

Rosario is back. Yawn. She's just never happy no matter where she is.

Labels: gavilanes

Hugo and Soledad:
H: You’re crying. These months without you have been a living hell.
S: Hugo, please don’t make this more difficult than it already is. You need that money as much or more than we do. Keep it.
H: Listen, you yourself told me that I only had to support myself. While you have to support your family and my daughter. Your poor father can’t work. Soledad, go ahead and hate me but please take the money. It’s not much but you can use it for things for our daughter.
In comes Dr. Dan (bad timing). He says that he is sorry that he came without notice but he couldn’t sleep. He went for a walk to think and ended up here at her house. He is saying that he needs to see Soledad when he sees Hugo. Hugo says good evening.

Alcides tells Eloisa that she opened her mouth and told someone that he had the treasure of Jeremias Montenegro under his control. You opened your mouth. Eloisa says that he can’t kill her. What happened to this new man who doesn’t like violence? Alcides says that he isn’t a killer but if she pushes him, she will see his bad side. “So you killed my Aunt Rebeca,” says Eloisa. (Michelle reacts to hearing this.) “You lied when you told me that she sprung a trap while hunting for Jeremias’ treasure.” Alcides tells Eloisa to get out. Eloisa says that she wants her money. She did what he wanted. She became Soledad’s best friend so that she could fall for him. It wasn’t Eloisa’s fault that Soldedad is not interested in Alcides.

Dr. Dan says that he thought that Hugo had left. He’s sorry. Hugo says that he came to see his daughter. He has no other business in this house. Hugo wishes Soledad and Dr. Dan good night and thanks Soledad for everything. Hugo leaves. Dr. Dan says that he shouldn’t have come. He’s sorry. Soledad says quite the contrary, she is glad that he came. She hugs him. Hugo sees this before he leaves.

Michelle, still in hiding, says to herself that Eloisa is a traitor. She acted like her and Soledad’s friend on the orders of Alcides. Alcides tells Eloisa that he won’t give her any money and to get out of his house. Eloisa says that Alcides won’t get his way. She knows that he wants to kill Dr. Dan. When he doctor’s body turns up, everyone will know that he did it. Michelle is impactada. Alcides says that he knows that one is not supposed to hit women but he won’t listen to another word. Eloisa looks abashed and leaves. Alcides locks the door to the house and takes the key. As he goes upstairs, he says that he can’t believe that he allied himself with that crazy witch. Now Michelle is trapped in Alcides’ house!

Margot has tried on the maid’s uniform. She says that it is horrible. She finds some things that look that they are made of gold (in a maid’s room? No, we see later this is Arturo’s room where Gladis told her not to go). Arturo comes in and asks if she has spoken with his mother. The things are medals that Arturo won in the war. Margot says that Arturo never told her about that. Arturo says that he followed in his father’s footsteps. They were both heroes in the war. Margot says that sounds like a fairy tale.

Here we go with the Obragon witches. Ester tells Lucas that she can’t believe he feels compassion for that man that nearly killed him. Antonia chimes in that Ester is right. Lucas tells them to be honest. Hugo wasn’t the only one to blame for what happened to him. He had been drinking that day and it was his second heart attack. Lucas says that he is responsible too. Ester maintains that Hugo was the only person responsible for what happened. Lucas tells them that he has stayed awake many nights thinking about what would have happened if Hugo had been hanged because of him. Ester says that he only the said the truth and Antonia chimes in to say that none of it was his fault. Lucas says that it isn’t a question of fault but it didn’t help to say what he did at the trial. He asks Ester and Antonia if they believe in their heart of hearts that Soledad and Hugo will ever stop loving each other. The witches can’t say yes.

Hugo flashes back to finding Soledad wearing Dr. Dan’s ring. He flashes back to hearing Soledad say that she will take the bag of money to Alcides and demand an explanation.

Dr. Dan says that Soledad has nothing to explain to him. He knows that Aurora will be a link between her and Hugo for the rest of their lives. He shouldn’t have come over without letting her know. Soledad says that she is glad he came. It was the perfect excuse for Hugo to leave. Dr. Dan asks if Soledad is ok and she says that she feels like she has an empty place in her heart. But it will pass. Dr. Dan says that he doesn’t like to see her suffer. He wants her to happy. She says that she can’t think about anything now. Dr. Dan leaves. Ursula comes up with the baby and says that sometimes love hurts but Soledad has to be strong, very strong.

Michelle is panicking. She says that she has to get out of the house. If Alcides finds her, she is done for. She uses her earring to try and pick the door lock. All of sudden, there is a knock at the door. It’s Hugo come to see Alcides. Michelle hides. Alcides comes downstairs. Alcides asks what Hugo is doing there so late. He hopes he hasn’t come for the chamber. That can wait until morning. Hugo says that came to talk to Alcides about what he did today in Soledad’s house. Alcides looks surprised.

Margot pins the medals on Arturo. She says that he looks very handsome. “Sure,” he says, “the handsome, impotent, one-handed man of San Marino.” Margot has a fantasy that Arturo, in his military uniform, is telling his mother that he will be married in a few days. His mother says that her dream has come true at last. Arturo introduces Margot as his future wife but Gladis calls her a slut and tells her to get out of her house. Margot comes back to reality and goes to sleep in the servants’ quarters. Arturo wishes that his medals were good for something even if it is just getting revenge on Alcides and his whole family.

Hugo and Alcides:
A: Would you like a drink?
H: No, thank you.
A: It’s your favorite liquor.
H: Thanks but no.
A: Fine. What do you say that I did in Soledad’s house?
H: You left a bag full of money in Soledad’s bedroom.
A: I did that? I don’t know what you’re talking about but I’m surprised that Soledad received you after what you did.
H: Listen, Alcides, I went to see my daughter. That’s how I found out about the bag. Don’t lie to me, I know it was you.
A: How can you be so sure? Did someone see me? Do you have any proof?
H: You entered that room the same way you did when the investors came to lynch me. I don’t understand how you did it. How did you get access to Soledad’s bedroom without anyone seeing you? I’m warning you. You can’t go into Soledad’s room whenever you want.
A: Calm down, calm down. Let me remind you that I am three minutes older than you. Some respect is indicated. The love you feel for Soledad is undeniable. Just like for me. Even in a hundred years, you couldn’t stop loving her. Am I right? (Michelle closes her eyes in sadness) Did you check out about Soledad and that quack? Did you see with your own eyes that he is engaged to her? (Hugo pours himself a drink. Alcides starts to eat nuts.)
H: Yes, but she hasn’t accepted.
A: Will you do nothing and wait until they get married?
H: No, that won’t happen.
A: I wouldn’t be so sure. Why don’t you be honest with me Hugo? Why don’t you tell me the truth? Do you love Soledad with all your heart as much as I do? (Michelle is rapt to hear Hugo’s reply.) I asked you a question, Hugo. You still love Soledad knowing that you have lost her forever? Do you still love her? (Hugo doesn’t answer.) It looks like I hit the nail on the head. She is still in your heart.
H: I didn’t come here to talk about my feelings. Watch out with your schemes to win her over. She isn’t stupid. She knows perfectly well that you left that money in her room.
A: But you haven’t answered the question I asked you. Do you still love her?
H: Why ask? You know the answer. (Michelle is stricken) You know perfectly well that Soledad is the great love of my life. I haven’t stopped loving her for one second since we met.
A: Then help me. Together we can both get von Chirac out of the way. (Michelle bolts for the door. Hugo sees the movement.) What happened?
H: I saw a shadow. You didn’t hear anything?
A: Listen to me. Don’t get distracted. Will you help me get von Chirac out of the way?

Soledad says to Ursula that she hadn’t seen Hugo in a long time. She felt short of breath. She had missed him so much. She says that now it is worse because she met him and it was like a knife stabbed her in the heart. She says that she is going out of her mind. Ursula says that love and madness are very similar. (If it’s so late, why isn’t that baby asleep in bed?) Ursula says that is why she is afraid to fall in love. Soledad says no, love is wonderful when it’s pure and transparent and there aren’t any betrayals. She says that it’s worth it. Ursula says that Hugo loves her. Soledad says that it is she who can’t be with someone who has hurt her so much. Ursula asks who does she think she is fooling? She will love Hugo while blood runs in her veins. She and Hugo were made for one another. Soledad takes the baby. She says that maybe she and Hugo were made for each other but destiny isn’t going to allow it. She says that destiny wants them to be apart. Hugo isn’t hers anymore. Hugo belongs to Michelle now. “Poor Michelle,” says Soledad, “she seemed so sad when she left as if I would never see her again.”

Michelle is sobbing walking along the brightly lit wall of the Hacienda. “My God,” she says, “What should I do? Should I leave San Marino behind forever? I can’t after what I just heard.” She flashes back to Hugo telling Alcides that Soledad is and has always been the love of his life. Then she flashes back to Eloisa telling Alcides that he wants to kill Dr. Dan. “I have never been a coward. I must do what is right. Before I leave and renounce Hugo’s love, I will expose his brother Alcides.”

Lucas tells Ester and Antonia that you can’t give up when you love. It doesn’t matter what happened in the past. Soledad and Hugo are still in love. The Obragon witches tell him that he’s delirious and should go to bed. Lucas says fine but he knows that Soledad will never be happy with anyone but Hugo - the man we hate so much.

Hugo and Alcides:
A: Pay attention, Hugo. If we do this right, if we act correctly, we can get rid of this von Chirac.
H: I won’t do any deals with you.
A: Don’t back out, brother. We have a pact.
H: A pact I regret. I accepted that stupid duel for Soledad’s love in a moment of weakness. But she loves me. She has absolutely no feelings for you.
A: But Soledad will never forgive you for what you did to her. You lost your money and you lost Soledad. Accept it.
H: I won’t help you get Dr. Chirac out of the way because Soledad is free to do what she pleases. Stop trying to impress her with your money. If you do anything against her, if you take one step against her, I’ll be there to protect her. Is that clear?
Hugo leaves.

At the hotel, Michelle is looking for Dr. Dan. She needs to find him and tell him that Alcides wants to kill him. She flashes back to making love with Hugo. She says that she can’t think about Hugo. She has to think about Dr. Dan. She can’t let Alcides hurt him. She gets the sword that Hugo made for her. She says that it is ironic that she will save his rival with it. Michelle leaves and Boris sees her. He wonders where she is going with that sword.

Dr. Dan must have just missed Michelle. He knocks on the door of her room but Boris tells him that Michelle isn’t there. Boris says that she left in a hurry with her sword. Dr. Dan wonders if she could have left San Marino without saying goodbye. He tells Boris that he is going to try and find her before she gets the last train. He leaves.

Eloisa opens a box and takes out the letters that Alcides sent her. She says that with these letters, she has Alcides at her mercy but he knows that she can’t open her mouth, that’s why he fired her. She says that Alcides is capable of killing her. She tries to think. She doesn’t want to be left penniless but what can she do? She wishes she knew where the treasure is in Soledad’s house. She flashes back to Alcides telling her about how Rebeca died from a trap he set to protect the treasure. She wonders if that is true or if Alcides killed her with his own hands. She has to forget about the treasure. She doesn’t want to end up like Rebeca. Michelle kicks in the door. Eloisa asks what she is doing there with a sword. Michelle says that she has come to unmask Eloisa. Michelle says that she has found out about Eloisa’s double game with Alcides.’’

Alcides is just about to go upstairs when he hears a noise. He says to himself that Hugo is right. There seems to be an intruder in the house. He gets a gun out of a drawer and surprises Hercu-less and Marina kissing. Marina says enough and slaps Herc saying that she isn’t a prostitute. He says that she knew he was watching when she was taking a bath. She wanted to arouse him. Marina slaps him and says that he had better respect her. Herc seems to find that pleasurable.

Aurora is sleeping and Ursula flashes back to kissing Boris. She says to Soledad that when she said that love hurts, she was speaking from her own experience. Soledad asks what she is trying to say. Ursula says that she is in love but it isn’t meant to be. Soledad is surprised. She wants to know who Ursula is in love with. Ursula says that she and Boris kissed and she liked it so much. Soledad is very happy for Ursula. She had no idea. But why does Ursula say that her love can’t be? Boris and Marina are getting divorced. Ursula says that it doesn’t only have to do with Marina. Boris is Hugo’s servant and she knows that Soledad doesn’t want to see Hugo. How could she and Boris be together? Soledad says that what happens between her and Hugo has nothing to do with Ursula and Boris. She should take the opportunity to be happy. She and Boris deserve it.

Hugo comes into his room at the hotel where Boris is waiting. Boris says that he was worried that he couldn’t find Hugo. Hugo says that he went to see his daughter and then went to see his brother and they had an argument. Boris says that it is not strange that Alcides caused and argument. Hugo says that Alcides is trying to win Soledad’s heart with money. Hugo says that his brother has never learned how to make a woman fall in love with him. “My poor brother,” says Hugo. Boris asks if Hugo spoke to Michelle. Hugo says no. Why is Boris asking? Boris says that it appears that Michelle has left San Marino.

Dr. Dan checks but Michelle is not on the last train out of town. Dr. Dan can’t figure out where she could be.

Eloisa begs Michelle to lower her sword. She is terrified of weapons. Michelle asks what the letters on the bed are. Eloisa says that they are just love letters but Michelle picks them up and reads the instructions to Eloisa from Alcides: find out if Soledad is the daughter of Jeremias; separate Soledad from Dr. Dan; make friends with Michelle Phillips even if you have to go to the hospital to do charity work, that’s what I pay you for. Michelle says these letters are from from Alcides, does Eloisa work for him? “How could you betray us in that way?” says Michelle turning her back on Eloisa for a second. Eloisa throws something at Michelle, “You’ve just made a mistake,” says Michelle holding Eloisa at swordpoint. Eloisa says that Michelle shouldn’t get involved. Michelle say that all San Marino will find out today and Eloisa and Alcides will pay. Eloisa asks how Michelle found out. She replies that she heard Eloisa arguing with Alcides. “What did you hear?” asks Eloisa. “Everything,” says Michelle, “including about the treasure. I don’t know where it came from but you are going to tell me.” Eloisa says that she doesn’t know anything but Michelle and her sword insist. Eloisa says that the treasure belonged to Jeremias Montenegro and he may have left it to Soledad because he is her real father. Now Michelle understands how Alcides returned as a millionaire. He took money that didn’t belong to him. Michelle asks what is the plan for killing Dr. Dan? Eloisa says that Alcides hasn’t told her. Michelle is going to take Eloisa to the police station so that Eloisa can tell them what she just told her. Paquito sneaks up behind Michelle and knocks her unconscious with a wine bottle. He says that he got there just in time to save Eloisa. Eloisa thanks him. Paquito says that he doesn’t understand why Michelle was trying to kill Eloisa.

Hugo says that Michelle wouldn’t have left without saying goodbye. Boris mentions that Michelle sent her stuff ahead with Andres. Hugo says that he convinced Michelle to stay. Dr. Dan comes in and reports that Michelle wasn’t on the train. Hugo says that maybe she is practicing. Dr. Dan asks whether she took her swords to think? Hugo asks Boris to leave them. Dr. Dan asks if something is wrong. Hugo says that he and Dr. Dan need to talk about Soledad.

Soledad is folding up baby clothes when Lucas comes in. He says that he spoke to Hugo tonight in her room. Soledad says that she wanted to warn him beforehand that Hugo was there. Did anything bad happen? Lucas says no. Soledad says that she knows what it means to have Hugo in the house, especially for Lucas. Lucas says that he knows. They have discussed this. He will do anything for his granddaughter (Aurora is asleep – so cute). Lucas turns to hobble out but he stops and asks Soledad how thing are going with Dr. Dan. Soledad says that Dr. Dan is a great person but they are going slowly. She doesn’t want to give him false hope. Lucas asks Soledad to tell him the truth – she stills loves Hugo, right?

Paquito asks what Eloisa has been up to that got Michelle so angry. Eloisa says that Michelle knows everything – that she and Alcides are secret allies. Eloisa says that she has to do something. Paquito says what, kill Michelle? Eloisa replies that even though Alcides hates her, he is going to have to help her deal with this problem. She asks Paquito to help her but he washes his hands of her. He has a big opening tomorrow.

Hugo and Dr. Dan:
DD: You want to talk about my visit to Soledad’s house?
H: I know you asked for her hand.
DD: You’re committed to Michelle.
H: Yes, we’re each rebuilding our lives. Soledad is now a possibility for you.
DD: You have never stopped loving her, right?
H: I have never stopped loving her.
DD: I thought you and Michelle were serious.
H: We are but I haven’t been able to forget Soledad. When I saw her after such a long time, it seemed that not a single day had passed.
DD: I hope that in spite of my interest in Soledad, we can have a cordial relationship. I know that we’re not friends but we don’t have to be enemies.
H: You’d better watch out for my brother, Alcides.
DD: Yes, Michelle warned me. It’s late. I’d better go. I suggest that you talk to Michelle. She must be upset to be out at this time.

Lucas says that Soledad’s tears are what prevent him from seeing Hugo in a good light. Soledad says not to pay any attention to her. Lucas tells her that a love that produces more anguish than happiness isn’t a true love. He asks her to think about it. He only wants the best for her. Soledad says that she knows. The credits roll.

Tomorrow – No LT
Thursday – It looks like Alcides is going to kill Michelle

Labels: la traicion

I am your substitute recapper tonight in Ferro's place. Welcome to the CarayCaray asylum, let's go look for Grandpa!

Back at the dispensary we get to relive the tender scene between Oscar and Juan. You can read Julie's detailed description which only leaves me pondering how a three fingered hand can make a mighty fist. Even Mickey Mouse can make a four fingered fist. sheeesh. They pledge to be united until death separates them, just like wedding ceremonies used to say. But not to fuss on details. They end by laughing at their man-love crying and Oscar tells Juan he is crying like an old woman. He used vieja and then mujer just to make sure we got the joke.

At the hacienda, Feo Fernado has managed to arrange his happy face and bursts into Gabriela's bedroom to act enthused that Sofia has been found safe and sound. Gabriela morosely crosses herself (just in case someone has a hidden camera pointed into her bedroom) in thanks, sort of...

One of the sisters welcomes Sofia back to the convent expressing more joy at her reappearance than Gabi did. She goes off to spread the glad tidings as Sofia stays back for a moment with Franco to thank him for getting her home safely. Franco lays it out that Juan asked a favor of him which is to tell her not to come see him tormorrow. Why not? Well the gossip (chismes). Sofia protests that she can't not go see how Juan is doing but Franco in a rare grownup moment asks her to be aware of Juan's position. He doesn't want people taking.

OOPS, SORRY FOLKS, Interrupted here for the election results and projections, but back to our exciting drama. If anyone got this gap filled in, feel free to add it in the comments.

In New Mexico we zoom back in to Eva announcing Padre Tadeo's arrival downstairs to Gabi and Feo who are both still in Gabi's bedroom (this suegra-yerno-love threat has me worried still). Feo boldly criticizes the Padre's meddling in her affairs too much. Judging and giving her his opinions about being more liberal.

Over a bedroom or two Jimena memory flashes Sofia's and Juan's kissing scene at the dispensary. The tawdry lighting scheme tips us off to her distaste and shock. She realizes Sofia has a right to be happy, but she is being so unjust to Feonando. Eva and Sarita burst into the room. Eva announces that Padre Tadeo has come to see Gabi so they took the opportunity to use the key to come see her. Sarita wants to know what Jimena knows: Jimena wants to know if they know about Juan and Sofia KNOWING each other. Actually she said, do you two know that Sofia and Juan are in love with each other? Sarita makes her predictable eeeewwww face.

Downstairs, Padre is chiding Gabi to be more understanding with the girls but she turns on him with no, you are the one who needs to understand, I've always been a good woman, a good wife, an excellent mother. and, no one has the right to judge me, to reproach me. I am pious, charitable, always disposed to help others, to have compassion for my neighbor. [Ed note: I faithfully recorded this impressive list so I could practice fiction and fantasy writing]. She doesn't need his counsel, but Padre insists that she may repent [more fantasy practice here] He says if she thinks she can remove him from her and her family, she cannot do it.

Back to the girls, errrrr young women, errrr women of a certain age: Sarita cannot understand how Sofia could be involved with this Bricklayer! You must be crazy, she says to Jimena, how can this be? Eva speaks up to say she already knows this is true. Now she doesn't have to hide it anymore since they know too, Juan and Sofia love each other. The three stand looking muy impactada.

Padre strides down the walk way from the hacienda and our antihero, Feo jumps out from behind a bush (ever ready to chase another skirt) to menace our Padre, to be sure they don't really need him or his opinions. But Padre says works in obscurity always come into light. He tells Feo that he is not fooled by him and further he is sure it was he who attacked Sofia. A giggling Feo snorts through his cigar and asks Padre if he has proof, and also answers for him, Nooooo, snort, puff... Padre asks him if he remembers that he revealed the perversity in his heart. Feo retorts that Padre is sworn not to reveal secrets of confession. More cigar smoke seals the deal, the threats are all out on the table.

A chastely dressed Sofia prepares her meager bed in the convent and crawls in it to smile knowingly at her candles. She gets to relive her passion with Juan and even to warm her fingers dangerously near the candle wax while she muses how much she loves Juan and now he is hers. While he watches the moon and has his own passion memories repeating the same words of how Sofia is his and they are now one, their love is forever.

Before we get too sappy about this let's check in on the BadLove Bar and hear Rosario' new little ditty. I can't exactly make out the words but the dance steps are already familiar and no one seems to mind anyway. She has a new sparkly costume that matches her chandelier earrings and hair clasp, so who cares! In her room, Franco jumps out to surprise and kiss her. Franco tells her the story of how Sofia and Juan are back after the horrible ordeal and attack and subsequent rescue. Rosario wants to know who it was, but Franco tells her the wretches were masked. He then wants to know if she is annoyed with him. She says it depends... He then surprises us all with the straight forward news, delivered while he nuzzles and fondles her, that he was at the hacienda to serenade Sarita. She jumps like she touched a hot stove. BREAK

Well why did you go to sing to Sarita? she snaps. He says he didn't now she would be so annoyed. As her jealousy soars, she asks if he would like it if she was with another man, isn't it like that (I don't think many men would get this answer right, bless them). She shouts at Franco she wants to know what he is doing is he tricking her or what. Does he love her or not. Bravely, he says he loves her with all his heart but he doesn't know what he feels about Sarita. Rosario yells for him to get out she is so angry and jealous.

Over at the church, Padre is rethinking Feo's threatening advice to be very careful, very careful, that he cannot reveal the secret of confession. Padre in the midst of jerky camera movements and threatening, throbbing music, assures himself that it must have been Feo who attacked Sofia this second time and it must have been Feo who shot Juan for trying to save her.

Feo and Gabi in her bedroom where all good talks take place, assures Gabi that she has nothing to regret. He repeats the litany of her virtues of piety etc back to her. Never mind about Padre and his criticisms, you need to put him in his place, he declares. Gabi smiles a rare deep smile at this suggestion.

Again the brothers at the dispensary are sharing good humored banter as they hear little brother's tale of being hurled out of Rosario's room in her jealous indignation at his confession. In his most intelligent speech yet, Franco declares that he doesn't understand women. When you try to tell them the truth that they say they want to hear, you get into more trouble. Oscar pretends to know more and acts like he knows how to dominate a woman. Juan grins and says dominate or to be dominated. How's it going with Jimena by the way? Oscar tells that he has asked Jimena to marry him. And then, says Juan. Well, says Oscar, she said yes. Oscar muses that he wants Jimena has all that he wants, beauty, tenderness, happy like me and her EYES, her eys are morning starts that light up my whole soul. OHHHHHH say the brothers.

Parallel discussion with Sarita, Jimena and Eva centers on Sofia's love of Juan. Sarita always the conservative voice declares that Sofia is not free. Jimena says that with the heart, no one can command love. Sarita again point out that Feo doesn't deserve to be betrayed, but just when his name is spoken, he appears and wants in on the conversation. They sputter while we go to BREAK.

We return to see Granpa Augustin being tucked in by Sor Ratita. Augustin thanks her for defending him from the quack doctors (matasanos). Sor Rati wants to know if he has any family. Yes he has a daughter but she is who made him come here. He also has three granddaughters, his treasures. Sor Rati promises to help him and they say good night. Augustin has his round of sweet memories.

The sputtering sisters cover pretty well as they tell Feo they were talking about how worried he was for Sofia and, and, well for all that has happened.. He grandly announces that even if it mortifies them he has decided to let Sofia stay at the convent a little while more to reflect on things and then he will seek her out to bring her back to the hacienda. Eva steps in to counsel Feo to leave well enough alone before it becomes worse. He could preserve the peace... but NO, Gabi being very crabby comes in to put Eva in her place as nothing but a servant. Eva leaves cowed while Gabi continues to lecture that Eva is nothing but an employee and they are not to treat her like a human being for any reason. Feo takes the opportunity to catch a little feel, (really just a brotherly hug?) on Jimena and ask Gabi if she can't free Jimena from her punishment. Gabi refuses even his request to stop her tormenting ways. But no, Gabi insists that JImena will realize this is all for her own good and she will thank her mother later. (so we move from fantasy to psychotic hallucinations.)

Eva prays to Bernardo in his chapel since no one else listens to her. She asks him to protect her daughter, his daughter and to help her discover if her dear daughter really is Rosario. A not so dear and certainly not sweet Rosario is throwing a rare hissy fit about the perfidy of Franco. Her assistant Ofelia comes in and confronts her with the truth that at least Franco is telling her the truth. (Spare us the "you can't handle the truth" speech) Perhaps it would be best if she kept away from Franco for a bit while she figures out how she really feels. (How the BadLove goon squad has gone silent for her to have this much of a life, almost an episode, let alone act out these little dramas in her dressing room is beyond me).

Franco is confused. He asks Oscar if he knows how much he loves Rosario but he is so undecided. Oscar is waxing very philosophic with this episode and tells him that the heart can speak to us but we don't always listen to it. For some reason he pulls Juan's beard, which brings nothing more than a slap in the air, then continues that Franco needs to do something for himself. and he owes it to both Rosario and Sarita to choose one, they deserve it. Oh girls, Franco sighs heavily.

The stern Sarita is penning another quill letter in her darkened room, but at least admitting feelings of love and allowing for the love Sofia has for Juan. She cries on about her love for Franco even though she knows he feels nothing for her. Her heart will remain cold and dry even more than before (just like Gabi, but Gabi wouldn't admit it). Then he gets a little day dream sequence of lovely heads and lovely boobs, the rose he gave Sarita, the naked swim with Rosario. What a tough choice buddy boy.... BREAK

Little Pedro is dragging Mariachi in the dark when he spots little Luis sitting alone in the dark on the ground. Luis admits to being lost and Pedrito takes him by the hand to lead him home.

Franco is still staring out the window, now dark, not leaving Juan's side even though he is not in serious danger. How these three are ever going to carry on lives with women is a mystery to be revealed. Oscar comes in and asks him if he is still thinking about his dilemma. Well yes, Franco doesn't think so fast maybe. Oscar changes the subject cheerfully and announces that they need to bust Grandpa Augustin out of the asylum. He will go from asylum to asylum until he finds him. He will be Oscar Reyes, hero of the helpless old people. Go Oscar.

Crickets abound at the dispensary and even more at the hacienda even though Feo seems bent on asphyxiating them with heavy cigar smoke. He puzzles over a particular piece of paper and when Gabi brings him in supper because he is working so hard, he tells her to look at it. They both keep repeating this can't be, this can't be.

Pedrito and Mariachi manage to get little Luis back to his filthy hovel. Pedrito tells him to get some sleep then realizes he is afraid to be alone so sits down and asks him questions about his father (doesn't know one) and his mother (yeah) when the drunken woman, with nicely dyed and set hair, who "takes care" of Luis staggers in and runs Pedrito off and curses at sweet little Luis who lies stiffly across his bed. She call him a little brat (escuincle - actually the other hairless dog of Mex but used for brat or rascal) whom she will be rid of one day.

Our stogie smokin' meister is fuming from the ears now as he reveals the mystery to Gabi: the impossibility of spending money without Don Augustin's signature. He has big planting expense and all the other expenses of running the hacienda and they can't get at the money. What ever are we going to do??

WE return to who they will do it to, Grandpa wakes in the night and can't reach his wheel chair. Now it's his turn to have the three lovely granddaughters surrounding him with laughter and caresses. He needs to escape this asylum just like Napoleon escaped from Elba, but first it's time for a little sleep. BREAK

The happy village friends organize a fiesta to celebrate the rescue and recovery of Juan. They debate whether to have it now or when Juan is well enough to come. Quintina knowingly advises them that that will occur later today!! ¡Ole! Just then back at the dispensary, the good doctor is releasing Juan while advising good behavior and taking all his medications. Padre skips in to take Juan home. Juan gives one last loving look at having had a bed of his own then happily leaves the dispensary. The Reyes boys are back at constructing the casita (for whom we might ask). The ever evil Feo arrives asking snarlily if they know much the cowards who attacked their brother (and his wife). Oscar has the good sense to say no the villains wore sombreros and masks so neither Juan or Sofia knew who they were. But they will find them, Oscar finishes. Feo wanders back to the big house with a laugh and doesn't see the sneer on Oscar's face as he leaves.

Juan and Padre enter the bakery and are greeted warmly by Quintana. As Juan tries to sit, Quintana says someone is here waiting to see you. Of course, it turns out to be a radiant Sofia.

At the Asylum, Gabi is telling Dr. Matasano that she has come to see her father because she misses him so. When he changes his behavior I would love to welcome him back to the hacienda. Well he is still so rebellious says Dr. Matasano. Well she would like to see him for a moment anyway and well, she has some little papers to have him sign.

Sofia, Juan, Padre and Quintina decide that Sofia can't go back to the convent alone with the attackers still on the loose. So they all go back with the Padre to protect Sofia and for Juan and Sofia to have plenty of time to talk.

Gabi insists on seeing her father, where is he. Soooo, Dr. Matasano has to admit that he cannot be found. Cut to Grandpa rolling along in frantic fugitive flight.

Sofia and Juan and Padrito head toward the door, Juan lingers to tell her how much he loves her. But when Padre opens the door FEO is there. But it is Feo who gets to utter that most famous of telenovela lines: Sofia, ¿que haces aqui?

Next: Where's Grandpa?, What are they going to do with Feo's discovery?

Labels: Fuego

As our past 8 years of witty, clever saying that we will all some day buy on awesome magnets from ebay, runs down. kudos to Mr. Cheney, for his West Virginia comment. In case you missed it he was reciting his family tree, yes on the Cheney side we go back to the 1630's (dude you were late comers, I got two sides that beat that, can I invade someone?) then mentions that there are Cheney's on the other side, then follows it up with and we aren't even from West Virgina. Are these people just not the greatest compassionate leaders ever?

If previews hold true looks like The Good Padre of St. Deceptions is going to make his patron saint proud.

We open with a rekiss of Val & Rocky at the Rodeo.
Nestor is telling his brother the Good Padre how he is all hot and bothered over Luci, meanwhile his “She doesn’t understand me and our love is dead, wife in Europe” is so in the past.

Mili auctions off Brau, some truck driver guy is up to 10,000 pesos, wait now it is 15,000 and free beer for everyone, egads it is the bar owner. Brau is his to do with what he will for $15,000 or $1500 and a few beers. Now Mili gets up and sings, Brau is dancing with the Bar Guy.

Const is having a dramatic hissy cause Val is missing, he thinks she may be in the Rodeo. I so want Consti to go in search of his hija, throw a hissy and get severely bitch-slapped by crowds no make that hordes of gay guys. Meanwhile, Luci has the woe-is me cranked up to where dogs in Toluca are howling. Oh what if our daughter gets pregnant. It may be a sin to hate these people, but I firmly believe it would be a greater sin to not hate these people.

Padre & Nestor are having a bit of a sit down. Nestor wants to tell Al the truth and make Al’s and Luci’s lives of unicorns, pink ballons, rainbows and pitchers of never-ending whiskey sours beautiful in a magic land. Padre tells him Al is unhappy cause he is in love with Mili and Mili thinks Al & Mili are brother and sister. Al truly, deeply, madly loves Mili. Nestor says he needs to straighten this whole mess out. Padre tells Nestor that Consti thinks Al’s real dad is el deado. Poor French Bastard.

Back at the Rodeo, Brau & Bar guy leave for a romantic evening and he tells the kids to close up. When cleaning up, Val chips right in like a lil Naca trooper, she feels more alive as a worker, she is so happy and so in love with Rocky.

Nestor and Padre are walking up in front of the church, when Al appears. Nestor gives him that creepy stalker look. He tries to chat Al up who gets a bit of a creepy vibe. Then Nestor leaves. Padre goes to talk to Al.

The girls all are in the kitchen, laughing rather loudly. The lights flip on and there stands Consti. He starts yelling at Val then gives her a smack across the face. Mili steps up and he gives her a good hard smack also. He tells Gloria and Lina who are frozen watching this, to go to bed. He sends Val up to bed.

Mili flies up in his face and says who do you think you are? My father? He says, his mother wanted her to be part of the family and she is going to respect them. More verbal sparring and Mili says each thing with pointed feral teeth. She walks out on him. Poor Poor Consti is left to stand there and shake his big bucket head.
Mili…if I was you that would indeed be the last time that AssHat evah laid a hand on me.

Next Padre calls his brother and says they have to talk about Al.

The next morning Gloria, Lina & Soccorita are having breakfast, Brau comes in all fluttery. He is happy with life. Mili comes in and says she has to go to some futbol thing. She is dressed nice.

Someone’s at the door, why it is Nestor. Brau is all like what a beautiful day, the sun is shining and so on. Nestor asks for Luci, Brau sends him into the study. Luci comes down, tells him he has an idiotic smile on his face, but she can’t dampen his good day.
---I guess Brau just feels happy cause now he can be who he is---


Anyway Mili is walking down the street and Padre runs up behind her. Change of plans, no futbol. Say though I have a really big surprise, look it is a gigantic stretch limo. You trust me don’t you, come on. Next thing you know, Padre is giving Mili a glass of champagne and forcing her to drink it really fast.
----Is it wrong for me to think that somewhere on adult pay for view, there is a movie like this?---
Now Al slides back the partition and says Hola to Mili, she passes out face first on a pillow.
----It has been a while since I have been to Mass, but is this something I missed? Roofies and liquor.

Meanwhile Num and Nutz (Hugo and Matt the Ratt) stand at the soccer field holding huge bouquets of roses. Hmmmmm where is Al?

Now done with berating the servant Luci glides in on her broom. Oh Nestor, baby. Why didn’t you call first. She is giving him a through oral exam. Say this is no time for sex, I’m here to talk about Al. I want him to know the truth, to be with the girl he loves. Never she spits back, not with that dirty servant. Nestor having lived many years in liberal Europe, sees nothing wrong with Al actually getting to be with the woman he loves. Luci rants, she raves, she starts pouring down glasses of whiskey. Luci is indeed one class act. Nestor won’t take no for an answer.

Flor and her father are having a conversation about Al. I don’t really know what it was about, other than Pa is like ditch the loser. Flor of course is obsessed and will hear nothing of it.

Mili wakes up on a beach with of all things a wienie dog, the dog look vaguely familiar, hey isn’t that the bunny that was on Fuego, oh yeah only now he is in a dog suit. Now there is where the real talent at TelVista lies.

Not that I am trying to kick sand on a really cliché romantic moment between siblings (hey she thinks they are related), but isn’t the whole beach thing overdone? And as we faithful viewers are aware those romantic moments are gone faster than the rash gotten from grinding on the beach. Bad things happen after these get aways, lest we forgot Rod promising to buy the isle of love for Gavi, only to come home and find out that cup of sperm he left laying around had impregnated his wife? Well not really, the neighbor had impregnated his wife, but they milked that one for months. And what about that gawd awful TeleNovela “Amor Sin Limites”, the painful beach shack, love shack scenario.

Anyhow Al walks up with a couple of sissy umbrella drinks, does he intend to drink and drug her and have his way with her, all with the blessings of St. Deception? No of course not, Al dancing around the punches Mili is throwing explains that he did this with the help of Padre Manuel. Mili looks stunned at this. Yeah me too. You can see Mili is rapidly recounting all three passages of scripture she learned during her eighteen year stint at St. Deceptions, thou shalt not kill, thou shall not steal, thou shall not lay down with the son of your father. Hmmmm was there a revision to that? Was I playing futbol when that was covered? Mili of course is a bit sketchy on how she arrived at the beach of love. Also there is not another soul for literally kilometers. Al tells her that the took the helicopter of love. Mili is wicked pissed that she missed her first helicopter ride. They are staying at Don Nestor’s abode, it is mucho private. He explains Nestor is the friend of Pa & Padre. Not to mention a very special friend of Luci.

Meanwhile back in Mx DF, word is out that Mili and Al are vamanosed, or gone. Flor is obsessively chewing her own lips off, while saying he isn’t at home, he doesn’t answer his cell. Her sister is like move on…get over it. No Flor screams he is with her. Her sister just seems happy that she won’t have to swap saliva with Bobby another, as a cover for watching over her manic sister. Her sister says to call Luci, but Flor doesn’t want to. Finally it comes down to getting a tazer and knocking her out OR…..and sister picks up the phone dials a number and holds the phone out to Flor. (Sorry my husband chose that moment to say something not even vaguely amusing and I missed who the call was to, or maybe they didn’t even say..maybe it is a call to Murder.Inc and they are going to put a hit on Al. Don’t be so quick little missy, I’m not really sure which would be worse, being married to you or dead…wait not so fast, this is a tough one.)

Now over at the Mansion of Bastardy, Padre is meeting with Brau, who is probably thinking, oh my gawd he knows, I know he knows, I can tell he is giving me “Thou art a sinner eye”. But know, Padre is not there to discuss the gay night out. He tells Brau that Mili is safe, Brau guesses that she is with Al. Padre chastises Brau for letting her think that Al & Mili are hermanos, rather than two random Bastards passing in the night. Never, Never does Brau want NO-NAME Al to marry Mili, cause her bastardy is better than that. For the love of Gawd, you would think these people had blood lines back to Isabella and Ferinand. Padre says that he is giving them time to find out the truth.

Now see I am totally squeeked by this cause in the event that Mili did give in…yuck, plus it would always be yuck cause even when you found out he wasn’t really your brother, you did your brother, or at least you thought he was your brother. Granted I am rather a buffet Catholic, I pick and choose, make my own plate, but I am totally sure this isn’t okay. Besides how come no priest ever hooked me up with some trip to the beach? Huh all I ever got was Hail Mary’s & Our Father’s. How come no rich old lady ever adopted me and die within a short period of time and left me all her money, huh? How come I wasn’t the Bastard love child of some rich guy…Oh sorry I forgot this isn’t about me.

Now Nestor is talking to some uber hawt guy who tells him that the kids got safety to the beach. Now Nestor is going to go see them.

By the By Al & Mili are eating and Al says he has a letter for her from Padre, Mili asks to see it and Al does one of those uber annoying hold it out and pull it back. Finally she takes it and goes to read it while sitting on the beach with Mr. Bunny posing as Mr. Wienie Dog. It is a letter about it is time for the truth to come out. Mili thinks he means she has to confess their siblingtude, but ding now I get it, Nestor is supposed to show up and shed some light on this tangled family tree.

Now then standing in the lobby of his hotel, ready to make up for every wrong he ever did, Nestor is about to go and find his son and make the world a better play.

Caw-Caw, well quote the raven nevermore, here come Luci, totally drunk, screaming and making a scene, she won’t let him ruin her son’s life. No he only wants to help Al and Luci. He will take care of both of them. No it is too late, my liver is on it’s last cirrhoses free cells. Hmm lil darling, you must let your son be happy. No not with her. Nestor continues, “Remember, when we met?” “Even though you were drunk off your ass and I mistook you for a French Whore, that night was magical, I’ve never forgotten it, you only remember the puke sick hangover, but trust me it was awesome.” We can make up for lost time, we have our whole lives ahead of us. They end up in Nestor’s room.

---Dude, I’m yelling at the TV…Stop help your son, but no, lil Nestor is in control, Luci is drinking and peeling off her lovely matching pantsuit as Nestor is already to play Pierre the French sailor and Marie the working girl---Oh what a freakin AssHat, he has succumbed to Luci sloshy seduction. This guy is a total loser. Please, what is the problem with every man of every age on this show, not being able to say. Like he couldn’t take two hours out of his life go save his son’s life, 200 pesos would have gotten him a cheap woman and a cheap bottle of booze, both of which had only been aged half as long. But No….

Back at the beach Mili tells Al she has to talk to him, and don’t interrupt, nah Al doesn’t want to listen, he wants to romp on the beach and frolic in cameo appearance. My husband thinks I’m crazy cause I’m saying no..not wave frolicking, but we all know that leads to wet clinging clothes leading to unhermanos thoughts, but damn there they go, romping now she is on his back….
I say if this leads to years of therapy…sue the church.

The end……………….

Tomorrow Luci is going through Nestors things and finds out where Al is, as Nestor sleeps with that doofy sated look on his face…Stellar attempt at DadHood.

Mili while soaked to the skin is showing Al the necklace of incest with dual-Pa initials..Al looks sick.

Padre Manual gets a call from Rome, thankfully my closed captions are able to translate Latin, “What the Hell are you thinking?”

Oh yeah and a shout out to Barack O’bama!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Labels: guapos

Alternate Title: "Be Careful What You Want, You May Get It!"

¡Dios mio! There was a lot of drama tonight and a lot of cleavage to go with it.

Here's how things shook out....so to speak.

Brief rehash of "Sandro" lamenting to real Sandro that his plan to win Paula isn't working; Juan ended up garnering her praise and admiration, not he.

And Juan blindsides poor lambypie Marely by saying he needs her at his side, the sun will cease to shine in the house if she leaves, he can't live without her, it breaks his heart to see her go and so on.

Is this a "broma de mala gusta" (bad joke) snaps Marely. Don't you have enough women...and prettier, more famous and richer than I?

Prettier, no! answers Juan, and besides, not one of them is my "official novia". And goes on to say how generous, how noble she is, the pillar of the family...the ideal woman, always ready to help. And Juanito will cry for a whole year if she goes to Spain!

What about Paula? asks Marely.

And wouldn't you know, the scene changes. We're back with "Sandro" and he's decided to take a new tack with Paula. He's groveling. He wants to talk. He feels like an idiot after this morning. She wants to go to bed early. He won't take much of her time. He could even come to the house. As he says to his doubting twin, the role of victim is my only weapon now.

And now a weird segue to the movie theatre where Herbierto is shrieking with each gunshot, spilling popcorn all over and finally wrapping himself around a bemused Gaytan, who spoon feeds the remaining kernels of popcorn into Herbierto's huge maw.

Back to Marely and Juan (this is like watching an automobile accident...it's horrible but you can't look away)

How long will this sudden love last? she asks. Five minutes, six months, a lifetime? Juan launches into an explanation that he was in love with two women when he came to Mexico City. And he had dreams of Marely as his companion, the mother of his children, someone to grow old with.

And then Paula arrived, and the dream vanished, Marely adds.

Yes, but what if Paula is the illusion and you are my reality, my destiny? Juan protests. Ay yi yi, my head is spinning and so is Marely's.

Quick switch to an equally uncomfortable tête à tète between Paula and "Sandro". He's whining that he took the job for her. He didn't need the paltry salary (yes, I know, you inherited a fortune, she snaps) but he was attracted to her.

Paula looks bored and uneasy but "Sandro" soldiers on. I wanted to show you I was worth something, I wanted the applause and admiration that Juan got this morning.

It's not a contest, replies Paula. Yes, it is! snaps "Sandro" losing his temper and being very Cesar Luis in spite of himself. I sense that you're not indifferent to me, he continues. You're attractive, she concedes,( not looking attracted at all.) I'm tired of solitude...I've found the ideal woman, he continues, really laying it on thick and getting nowhere.

And we're back with Marely and Juan while he tries to explain why he and Paula are a non-issue. We've hurt each other so much and ended up with nothing. But why now? adds Marely when I'm on the verge of leaving for Spain.

Because I'm an idiot, replies Juan (we'll agree on that point) and because, as the song says, "you don't know what you have until you lose it". He advises Marely to "consultar plumas de ganso" (which is like saying "consultar la almohada"...in other words to "sleep on it".

More discomfort...we really get to see Cesar Luis twisting in the wind. Paula insists on telling him how great it was with Juan and how she can't forget his caresses even as she tries to remake her life. CL looks like he's swallowed bile and them some. The humiliation is piling on and there's more to come, folks.

Marely now walks in on Yadira who is crying piteously and for a moment we think she's regretting her decision to divorce...but no, she's weeping over a telenovela and only reluctantly turns it off because little sis needs to talk to her.

Juan asked me to be his "novia" Marely says. And honestly, I don't know if "novia" in this context means "official girlfriend", "fiancée, bride or what. Take your pick.

Marely explains her doubts. Is Juan doing this just to get over Paula? Is it real love...the forever kind? Oooh, you want security, commitment, eternal love, laughs Yadira. That doesn't exist. Those are just pretty words.

Marely admits she doesn't know what to do. She's dreamed of this so often and now... What would you do in my place, she asks. Yadira doesn't hesitate...I'd stay with Juan. And lose the scholarship? Well, what do you want? A little adventure in Spain or someone to warm your feet for years to come?

Break to Juan, telling Juanito to hop into his pajamas. Earlier he told Juanito about Marely's decision to go to Spain and the little bugger won't let up on Dad. Well are you going to let her go!? Juan concedes he asked her to be his "novia" and Juanito is pleased. They both look at each other, hands on hips. These mirror scenes with these two are really cute. I'll miss those.

We have a brief skirmish with Yadira and Kike. She yells "Where were you!?". He reminds her that they decided to treat each other with respect. She tones it down and tells him they have a date with her lawyer tomorrow. Have your lawyer talk to my lawyer, he replies.

Now the inevitable scene with Nidia and Marely. Mom admits she just happened to overhear the news about Spain. Because she had her "oreja pegada a la puerta" (ear pressed to the door). And she's ready for a real tear-jerking scene a la Libertad Lamarque (Argentine actress who was known as "the novia de America" and appeared in 65 Mexican films).

She tells Marely it hurts to see her go. Who'll keep Nidia in line? Who'll make her recite her "our Fathers" and "Ave Marias" when she needs to? But in a surprising turn, she adds, don't take anyone else into consideration...think of yourself and what you want. It would be great for you to travel, know the world a little, grow up, develop as a person.

But why so sad? Does getting your dream lead to depression? Nidia adds. Juan asked me to be his "novia" explains Marely. And we break with Nidia looking muy muy muy impactada.

When we come back, we have a repetitive scene with Ana and Paula. We've seen this one a gazillion times. Ana is saying, get rid of that "Sandro" (Cesar Luis insert here). Juan is your true love. No, I don't interest him anymore. It's too late. Resign yourself, mom, as I have.

The mother daughter discussion continues...but with Nidia and Marely. Nidia is musing on her life, messing around "sin ton ni son" (without rhyme or reason) looking for love and ending with nothing. She wants better for Marely.

Marely, of course, protests that Nidia's life was meaningful and every good thing about Marely comes from her. Follow your dream, insists Nidia, don't sacrifice because you'll pay for it.

But what if my dream is Juan? Well, welcome to the club! laughs Nidia. But I'm not sure, adds Marely. No way to be sure, other than to dig a hole and jump in, confides Mama.

Now we're at the office. Paula notices that Marely looks exhausted and assumes her sleepless night is due to thoughts of the trip and changes to come. Marely confides that her mom already knows and is encouraging her to go. Paula laughs and says, "For the first time in my life, I'm in agreement with Nidia Cachon!"

Well, I don't know if I should tell you, hesitates Marely, but Juan last night asked me to be his "novia".

Paula goes ballistic. No no no! You've never been more than a friend! This is just Juan's selfish way of trying to keep you around. He'll say anything. He's a liar. You supported him, you were a confidante, but that's all it is!

Mercifully, we get a break from all this shrieking. The scenes switches to a pensive Juan and Kike at the breakfast table. Kike is all about what a great idea it is for Juan to hook up with Marely. She's the perfect woman, meant for you, great for settling down with ("sentar cabeza"). Ya think so, says Juan hopefully.

Shriekfest at office continues. Paula is downright insulting, refusing to believe Juan could actually love Marely and so our little rose garden unloads all the lovely things Juan said about settling down, having a family, she's his happiness, his mood brightener, his reality, his destiny...rather than the illusion of Paula.

So what did you say? Paula finally asks. Nothing, Marely answers...and he's waiting for a reply. Do you love him? From the very first moment. I hid it. I tried to forget him with Fernando and with...she trails off. But he never left my heart. You don't know how I've suffered. I felt such jealousy...all those women! (half-sister Paula among them), but finally HE LOVES ME! Marely concludes.

Well, will you work out as a couple? Paula queries. (I'm pretty sure she means Will you be compatible in bed...like she and Juan surely were!) And Marely admits she's scared about that. What if it falls short, what is the relationship is unreachable, only in my imagination. Should I accept? she adds.

Paula slips out of answering by reminding Marely that she's much more sensible than herself. She's made such a mess of things. She's sure Marely will make the best decision.

And when Marely leaves for the embassy Paula wails (and I do mean wails!). WHY HER!!?? WHY JUAN...WHY HER!!!???

Cosy little scene with Pastor playing nursemaid to a feverish Angarita and Angarita not liking it one bit. We're not kids, Gaytan remonstrates, you've got to take care of yourself. No hanging around Casa Cachon, no going to work.

And speaking of no going to work, Alirio is sacked out and snoring on the bed after being out all night boozing it up with Gutis. Compassionate Nidia wakes him up by clanging two frying pans together and telling him to take a shower, wash off the stink of cigarettes and look for real work!

Juan in the meantime is looking for something special to bring to Marely. Flowers? No, too humdrum. A ring? Whoops, no, that has never worked well for him. A stuffed animal? Grow up Juan! Chocolates? she may be on a diet. CD's...boleros by Lucha Villa? (most famous singer of "rancheras", born 1936 in Mexico).

He waltzes into the office with a blue bag, but we don't know what's in it. Notices Marely's empty desk. Has he lost? Has she gone off to Spain? Instructs Ivonne to have a chauffeur take Hillary's car back to her.

Brief scene with Marely at the embassy, wondering about all the papers she has to have for a whole year's stay, and the official reminds her that she must notify them if she wants to come back to Mexico at any time. She leaves and he looks with great interest at her backside.

Paula in the meantime is in full meltdown. And though I haven't mentioned it before, she's in a lavendar wraparound dress that didn't quite make it around her assets. We're seeing a whole lot of Paula and have to give the plastic surgeon credit...he did a great job.

She's crying, she can't go on, she can't breathe, she's dying. Ivonne enters and is understandably sympathetic. A well endowed woman herself, she leans over to comfort Paula and the phrase "bosom buddies" comes to mind.

And now, further humiliation for faux Sandro, real Cesar Luis. Laura is futzing in his office, worried that Pastor will find out she's working for him. So what? Pastor is not more important than I am. Well, I'm really worried about upsetting Juan. Oh, you've fallen under his spell? Oh yes...I would really love to get something going with him, Laura assures him. CL looks like he's swallowing bile again.

Back to Paula, tears (and a few other things) spilling over. Hillary...I was jealous...but I could handle it. Laura with her cheap coquetry..I was jealous, but I could handle it. But Juan asking Marely to be his "novia". No no no...the man I adore, the man I dreamed of, the man I waited for, the man I learned to treasure TOO LATE!!!!....and on that shriek we end this evening's episode. ¡Dios mio!


Vocabulary:

consultar con plumas de ganso, consultar la almohada (pillow) sleep on it

sin ton ni son without rhyme or reason

despabiladar wake up, get with it, get act together

sentar cabeza settle down

lleva la papa a la casa bring home the bacon

la nave (lit. ship) car

ni falta que hace no matter

tracala trick, swindle

dar tirria a alguien have a grudge with someone

albur a chance, a risk (can also mean play on words, pun)

Labels: Juan

Another fun week of Juan lasting longer than anyone ever imagined.

The beginning recap on the show is Kike picking up his precious daughter Nidia Micaela and telling her how he hasn't seen enough of her lately and most important he tells her that she is the only good thing the her mother Yadira has ever done. An almost contrite Yadira listens outside the bedroom door.

Hillary explains she has left a message for Juan who, mysteriously, has not called. Papa tells her to get used to it, yesterday he straightened Juan out about a few things like the futility of trying to take advantage of his daughter. HIllary protests that Papa had no right... but he insists he will continue... but she presses on that Juan is the most, best, blahblah... Not all men want just her money, but Papa, like lots of caring suspicious fathers, thinks otherwise. HIllary feels like she has become just merchandise. But Papa says Juan is an ignorant and stupid (naco) who is newly rich [Ed note: nuevo rico es mejor que nunca rico, ¿no?] Hillary struts off declaring she will continue to date Juan.

Paula and Yvonne make faces at the door bell and sound of Heriberto bellowing for admission

Nidia actually discusses her heartbreak at Angarita's betrayal with Alirio. If you can call what they do a discussion. Alirio is more than happy to condemn Angarita, in fact Nidia's realization of the facts is an occasion to celebrate.

Heriberto has come to make his declarations to Yvonne. Paula walks through and tells him to lower his voice and calm down there are people sleeping in the house. On bended knee, Heri begins his declaration to a less than eager Yvonne who can't avoid hearing him out. He starts right off telling her she would be better with him than that thin donkey, Fernando [is it an additional insult that he uses the feminine burra flaca..]. As he holds her hand he loses his composure when she insists she doesn't love him, she loves and wants only Fernando. Then he angers and accuses her of two timing him, playing on two teams, being a ravenous (devoradora) eater of men. Paula finally breaks it up saying Yvonne has spoken. Heri leaves in a huff.

Juan is giving a "we are family" speech to Fern, Pastor, and Lorenzo who applaud appreciatively.

Angarita cries in his little pj's as Pastor tries to ask him he has informed Yadira of his suspicions (about his paternity) The destroyed Anga says no and how could he be taken as a dirty old man wanting her as a woman?? [Why indeed, this group isn't smart enough to be mind readers]

Juan and Juanito have their now familiar argument as Juan dresses in a special shiny tie explaining he has to appear like a king in front of Licenciada (Paula). Juanito scolds him that she isn't worth it and only one person is worth it. Juan just wants to know if Juanito doesn't need to pack his backpack for school as he continues to preen in front of the mirror. Down stairs they encounter a waking Kike on the couch [the most used prop in the Cachon scenes]. Kike yawns that he can't sleep in the same room as Yadira but at least his daughter is close by again. Juan inquires about Yadira's sudden return home to be informed about the nerve (descaro) of that Angarita. Juan asks with true surprise, what, badly positioned/silly little (desubicadito act has he committed. Kike launches into Angarita's fall from grace and Yadira can't even bear to go to the market again. Juan thinks he better investigate since clearly Anga isn't telling the truth yet...[duh, we could have cut a week or more of moronic dialog here...]

Kike enters the room for his things and Yadira says she doesn't want create a battle ground and ruin the peace of the entire household. Kike agrees that the parents errors are not the baby's fault. Yadira wants a civilized negotiation and they discuss getting another lawyer who can work out a favorable-to-all compromise. BREAK

Now in the office of the president, Juan proudly produces his pie chart and analysis to save money which includes outsourcing all the transportation costs including shipments and chauffeurs. When Paula gives an approving, good point, Juan moves on to the bar chart of points of sale. S2/Sandro (it's always CL in the office now, right?) jumps in to criticize that if they sell off the outlying stores (malbaratar) cheaply, it won't get them very much money. Juan pulls out another bar chart to show that they can expand sales with their special gourmet market. S2 tries to put this down as a new field they haven't tried before [isn't anyone asking how does Sandro know??] but Paula dubs it that magic word "diversification" and declares that his entire proposal is realistic and brilliant and will involve everyone in the company. Juan beams. Paula asks, And what does Sandro think?? His sour puss shows his chagrin.

Anga finally dressed is in the market asking Remolacho if Yadira has come. No but here comes her "EX", Kike appears but merely asks for the list of deliveries. As he walks away, Anga asks him if he has talked with Yadira. "What do you think?" he quips. Anga says thinks are not what you think they are, it is all a confusion. Yeah, a confusion in your head, says Kike. He adds that Yadira doesn't want anything to do with him and will not be coming back to work. As he leaves, Angarita begins to clutch his chest and sits heavily while poor Remolacho asks what's wrong. Anga merely barks, that he should mess in other's business but get back to work.

Back at the triumph of the charts, Juan continues to shine brighter than his tie while Paula, overlooks S2's ideas which he says are so like this, she says they should adopt Juan's proposal immediately to avoid (evitar) the layoffs (despidos) so no one will lose their work. Juan thinks how he loves having Paula's approval. Moments later the three face the lounge lizards en masse while Paula announces the good news that no one will lose their job. And the thanks goes to the brilliant financing ideas of their president Juan. Bows and applause and Juan really gets to give his "we are family" line. Next with the boys in his office, they all joke about Juan's triumph while Juan reminds himself that he is no longer the crude driver, but now has the reins of the company. Fern adds that his learning phase is over. Heri can't believe he still has a job but Juan assures him he will still be Pastor's assistant and he doesn't have to fear Sandro. Pastor is pleased and they all lay on the praise. Juan graciously shares the credit with his Santito de Atoche and his great friends who all helped him.

Yvonne tells Pastor that Paula had to run Heri out of the house for his grossness. She does defend that his his more wild (silvestre) than a brute. Pastor still has dreams about winning Heri for himself, but Yvonne very kindly tells him she isn't sure that Heri has the same preferences that Pastor has.

Juan tells Sandro, that Heri will not be layed off but S2 still gets to deliver a blow to Juan's happy hour as he announces that Marely has resigned her position. When shortly after Juan is questioning Marely, she tells him, finally, that she has decided to go live in Spain. [Ed note, Given your weakness for Juan, dear Marely, I would have sent him a postcard from Madrid for safety.]

Pastor and Heri continue discussing Heri's pointless quest of Yvonne. Pastor tries to be conciliatory and ends inviting Heri for a movie and dinner on him tonight.

Juan is thinking instead of talking to Marely but at least about her and how is he going to keep his rose garden, his little guardian angel who has always been there for him. Marely explains how she wrote the essay, got a grant and is so excited about her new future. What did Paula say, he asks. Well she was the first person to encourage her. Later, Juan is telling Paula how hard this will be for him and for little Juanito then drops the bomb that it will be for ONE year. Before we leave the office, Yvonne and Pastor discuss the handling of Heriberto who should not be bothering Yvonne anymore. Pastor demurs discussing his methods but how can he help but enjoy the results a bit with Heri turning toward him during his distress and loss.

A week can't go by without a visit to the garage with Gutis and Alirio discussing their dilemna. Alirio has the bright idea that they can drown their problems in wine.

Back to Juan having his series of flashbacks of the lovely Marely offering support and love to him and to Juanito on so many lovely occasions, and a little fantasy kissing thrown in.
But, YIKES. Out in the lizard lounge, Hillary arrives asking for Juan. While Paula, Marely, Yvonne and Fern watch with wonder, Hillary walks in after Yvonne announces her. Juan kisses her on both cheeks and she starts off saying she is so upset (apenada) since she heard what her father said to him. Juan tells her not to worry, he understands her father perfectly. While she warms up he continues to think of Marely and how he can't do without her smiles and wise council and care.... BREAK

Paula leaves the office alone after trying unsuccessfully to get Marely and then Yvonne to go with her. Inside Juan's office Hillary wants Juan to come to some event with her but he begs off to spend time with Juanito who has suffered with all papa's late hours lately. They decide to leave together while he tells her he will be returning the car she loaned him in another day or so. When he stops to say good night to Yvonne, Hillary gives her a pretty compliment about her hair and asks what kind of shampoo she uses. Juan thinks HIllary always has something kind to say to everyone. He looks over his shoulder at a less than thrilled Marely and rues the pinched look (estrujada). Off goe the beautiful couple just as Laura in the strangest tights seen yet sees them then Julia has the fun in cluing her in on how amorous Juan is with the famous Hillary. Laura stomps off on her ugliest of legs. Another elevator door opens and Kike comes in to flirt with Julia.

Back in Casa Cachon Yadira tells her mother that Kike hates her. Kike tells Julia that Yadira has returned but he is still planning the divorce. They continue planning their brilliant business in trucking together.

Heri struggles in the exercise machines with a breathless Pastor at his side when the ultimately thinkable happens: The WIG (peluca) finally snaps off onto the floor!! [Ed note.- how many months have we waited for this?]

CL and Sandro discuss that Juan is smarter than CL gave him credit for. The strategy simply isn't working. What will work, CL ponders....BREAK

Paula tells her Mom how he came through, probably by luck, to save the company and give all his heart to save the situation for his friends and fellow workers. Ana says it isn't luck, it is because Juan is a noble wonderful person.

At home, Yadira tells someone on the phone that her sister isn't there. When Marely appears she hears that she is to appear at the embassy to get her papers at 12 tomorrow. Gracias a dios. She now tells Yadira for the first time that she has a grnat to study in Spain. No one knows, but now the eavesdropping Nidia behind the door knows too. Cut to her crying out to Juan that she is destroyed. Cut to Juan entering Marely's room where she is packing and he sits down to tell her something so important. She is the pillar of this family and how can they get along without her. Juan starts to think his romantic thoughts before he comes out with the ending sentence that he wants Marely to be his girlfriend!! END

********Vocabulary*********
naco = stupid [the most used adjective in this entire TN, everyone better get this right in the exam to follow]

burra flaca = skinny burro [but hey, it's feminine used to describe a guy, extra points on the insult scale]

devoradora de hombres = man eater

descaro = nerve

desubicadito, desubicado = badly positioned or silly

malbaratar = to sell off cheaply, or at a loss

evitar = to avoid

despidos = layoffs, dismissals

silvestre = wild

apenada = upset

estrujada = pinched, squeezed

peluca = wig

Labels: Juan

LORENA DE LA CRUZ (Ana Layevska)

Tenacious, active, intelligent, intense and with much courage. Lorena is a young woman with a sense of humor, character and great integrity. In spite of adversity, she has maintained the will to live. Lorena has a natural talent for cooking. Her goals are to study and become a chef, and to have (form) a family. She always strives to resolve any problems with the people around her.




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ALONSO UGARTE (Gabriel Soto)

A young physician. He’s manly, a protector, a hard worker, responsible, gallant, loving, firm and clear-headed (de ideas claras). He’s a good son and brother. Alonso is a man who, in spite of his youth, has successfully made his way to excel in the world of medicine. Medicine and Lorena are his passion, but on account of Sara’s schemes, he believes Lorena has been unfaithful to him, and thus he breaks off his relationship with her and begins one with Sara.



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SARA DE LA CRUZ (Carmen Becerra)

Impulsive, fearless, ambicious, vain and egotistical. She has no limits in accomplishing her goals. Sara is amoral, cynical, intelligent, and very dangerous. She calls Lorena her friend, but deep down she envies Lorena. Sara usurps Lorena’s place as the granddaughter of Hortensia, whom she admires and gets along with very well. Sara is enamored of Alonso to the point of obsession. Her secret lover, Chalo, supports Sara in her misdeeds.



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ERNESTO MENDIOLA (Jorge Aravena)

Ernesto is a successful chef who has (enjoys) a good situation. He loves good food, good wine, and life in general. Ernesto has sworn not to marry, perhaps because he never has really fallen in love. Maniacal, described as an ogre by his students, he’s a person who loves to cook, and it is this love that brings him into Lorena’s sphere.



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HORTENSIA ARMENDÁRIZ (María Rubio)

A manipulator, materialistic, despotic, Machiavellian, dominating, without scruples and racist. Hortensia is elegant and refined--she loves what is beautiful and expensive; she is a perfectionist to the point of madness. Her children and grandson disappoint her. Hortensia rests her hopes on Sara because she sees herself reflected in Sara.



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CHALO CARRASCO (Mike Biaggio)

Macho, handsome, muscular and virile. Chalo is a simple man, unrefined (coarse) and very sensual. He complains about his bad luck and his economic situation. Chalo is the lover and accomplice of Sara, with whom he is hopelessly in love, but she only wants carnal pleasure from him. She takes him to heaven with her passion and drags him down by humiliating him. Since he is the one person who knows the truth, Chalo constantly blackmails Sara.



Jeanne

Labels: enemiga, synopsis-cast