Caray, Caray!

**Are any of you old enough to remember the Mystery Date game from the 60's? It was just one of the many tortures we girls were forced to endure from that era.

Ah well, enough reminiscing from the good old days of Mystery Date and Suzie Homemaker, our characters have their own problems to deal with...

Alicia asks Pato "Why are you with me?" He tells her the truth, he doesn't know. They made a big mistake but she was there for him when he was alone, so basically he owes her. She tells him he's afraid to be alone, he'd crumble. "And you would crumble (desmoronar) if I left you," he retorts. "No, I would die because I love you," she concludes, leaving him speechless.

Donato sneaks into the bridal chamber and replaces some photo with another. Who are these guys? OK, turns out he's removed a pic of Jaime's favorite futballer Omar Bravo and replaced it with Bruno Marioni. He proudly tells Santiago, snicker snicker.

Jaime complains to Isa about this. Seems stupid to me but it's a big deal to him. She thinks it's stupid too; is Bruno Marioni one of his sons, or an Italian scientist? Santi joins in and gets blamed. Donato finally fesses up. I can't believe I wasted time recapping this scene. Isa sighs that men are boys in long pants.

Candy and Chava roast marshmallows and tell scary stories under the perpetual half moon that always hangs high in the sky. She tells him not to be afraid because their tent is magically anti-fear. He tells her not to be afraid because he'll protect her. I'm surprised Pato's not lurking in the shrubbery. What am I saying? Of course he is, or will be soon.

Donato has a heart to heart with Santi. He's in love but it's an impossible love, she's married. Santi thought he liked Tina? But no, once he's alone Donato takes a small pic of Isa out of his pocket, sighs, and looks toward heaven. Aha! We knew it, right Carlos?

Raul visits Marissa and she bitches why is he always at her place? He's afraid, he doesn't understand how she's going to pay back Santi for all his infidelities. She snarls Santi is about to become one of the most miserable men in the world. No, she's not going to commit suicide, it'll be something much worse than blood. Raul looks creeped out, even more than usual.

Santi goes to the grounded tree house and talks to himself about guess what? If you guess Candy you would be right. Marissa ominously voices over that Santi is living his last days of tranquility and peace, because after the wedding he'll return to see neither her nor his child.

Candy and Chava (wearing some cool Light Vision Goggles) hear a scary noise, is it a beast? Well yes actually, it's Pato come to join the fun. I notice that nobody has instructed Chava you're not supposed to stare at people in the face with a head lamp. Pato brought Chava a gift, a compass (brujula) which excites the hell out of the kid. He also brought a radio set and other outdoorsy stuff. Good job dad. Kid wants dad to sleep with them but dad says he'll sleep outside to protect them. Candy is looking a bit more enamored of her ex.

Lalo is preparing a surprise dinner for his wife but the mood is ruined when the utility man shows up to turn the lights off. Unfortunately Lalo doesn't have his receipt to show the guy. He calls "Hortensita" but she's rather busy, she waves sweetly to a gentleman friend who's in her room. Does Horty have a mystery date? Will he be a dream, or a dud? She tells Lalo she can't bring the receipt over, another day perhaps.

After Chava falls asleep Candy joins Pato by the fire. He says when she left him life ended for him, he was sad and drank a lot blah blah blah and Alicia helped and was... "Sex!" pipes up Candy. Pato can't deny it, but he cried a lot, he missed her a lot. Candy admits she missed him and cried for him too. I think maybe this was their very first mature and honest conversation.

Santi can't sleep and hypes out in his bedroom, listens to music, golfs, looks at his phone, and finally calls Candy. Unfortunately Meño answers, Candy's not there. He advises Santi to just marry Candy once and for all! Greg is giving herself a manicure and makes a sour face. Meño reveals that Pato asked for his help with Candy. That's it, Santi plays hardball by promising to do Meno's eyelids for free. Eyelids and chin, negotiates Meno.

Back to Pato and Candy and back to the same old, when she saw him with Alicia she thought she was going to die but then she discovered she was pregnant with Chava which gave her the will to live. She says she didn't ever try to find Pato because she could live without love but never without dignity. Pato hopes that one day she can learn to trust him again.

Chava wakes up and Candy gives him permission to invite dad to sleep in the tent. Allrighty then.

Santi's phone rings. He answers it without looking, "Hello Marissa, what do you want? Eye tacos? Yes my love, whatever you say my love."

Horti is fawning over her mystery date, taking his shoes off, helping him onto the bed. We see his tennis shoes on the floor but can't make out his face. Ding dong, it's Lalo at the door and he wants his receipt for the utility bill. He peeks into her bedrooom and is very excited to see she's not alone.

Sleepy Santi shows up with the eye tacos but Mari says she already ate cold pizza, he can have the eye tacos. He looks like he's going to hurl and she squeals in evil delight that he is having sympathy nausea. She'd invite him to stay but she knows he likes to have brekkies with his peeps. He can take the eye tacos home for breakfast but he shouldn't eat them cold because they stick to the palate. Santi stumbles out about to puke and sinister music plays as Marissa makes her meanest bulldog face.

Back at camp, Candy spends a restless night moaning "Why Patricio? It could have been so great with you," while Pato mumbles in his sleep. She notes how alike father and son are.

Next morning the half moon is still high in the sky as Chava takes a precarious stroll on the rickety dock while mom and pop doze in blissful ignorance of the danger at hand. We see the dinghy line come loose and the dinghy float away.

It's breakfast time at the big house. Santi is sleepy and Isa scolds him for being Marissa's bitch, she's tired of seeing Marissa abuse him. He falls asleep while she's talking to him.

Candy wakes up and calls for Chava. She sees the rickety dock then the overturned dinghy in the middle of the lake! Pato swims for it, no sign of the boy!

Alicia calls Gregoria to complain that she slept alone thanks to her zorra of a sister. The cell phone pays for Pato's absence by finding itself hurled onto the floor.

Pato's back on shore, he and Candy are going through Chava's bag. Pato thinks to call him on his radio that he conveniently gave to him the night before. Chava answers, whew!! But he's lost. But he has his compass! They help him figure out the direction of the camp. Suddenly, from a dead standstill, Chava trips over the ledge, drops both radio and compass, and ends up hanging onto a tree.

Patricio MacGyver fashions a compass out of a plate of water and a magnetized needle to find the direction. I probably would have figured out the general direction by where the sun rose but what do I know, especially when the half moon always hangs high in the sky.

At last they find Chava squealing and barely able to hold onto the tree. Pato "rappels" 10 feet down a 45 degree slope to rescue his son. With a mighty grunt Pato and Chava climb the rope the difficult 10 feet back up to mama and the reunited family hugs.

Hortencia makes breakfast for her "Precious". We still don't see his face but the back of his head looks a bit young. Is he a boy toy or is he a secret kid? The way these telenovela moms treat their sons it's hard to tell sometimes. To further confuse us she gives him kisses all over his face.

Back at Candy's house Pato kisses Chava goodbye. Candy tells Pato he should know how she feels about Santiago. He asks is she in love? "I'm confused," she answers. He grunts knowingly and thanks her for the great time, the best day of his life. (Uh, Candy, when you want to make a big announcement about how you feel, "I'm confused" is a bit anti-climactic.)

Over at the institute Marissa annoys Candy by blathering about her honeymoon to the Greek Islands and then teasing Candy about being jealous. Candy annoys Marissa by admitting she can't keep her promise, she can't get Santi out of her head. She's not betraying Marissa or trying to take the father away from her kid, but she can't stop thinking about him. (Good topper there Candy.) Marissa is now super annoyed and gets a satanic look on her face as Candy rushes out. "Don't turn me into a witch, Candy, or you'll see the devil," she threatens.

Mañana: Meño's boyfriend's son shows up and says he's not there to discuss the death of his father, he's there to tell Meño his family is going to sell all their Guadalajara property. Yes, all of it!

Labels: Tontas

Ladies and gentlemen, here is chapter 4 of this so far somewhat bland novela. We all know it will get very complicated and that the body count will keep increasing and that our star-crossed would-be lovers will be tortured, etc. Anyway – please, if you have some factual or historical information, please show up and bring it. Photos are even better – I don’t have any.

If anyone knows how to post this to the sidebar, please do so.

We begin with yesterday’s scene in which Lili talks to the cook and tells her she overheard Barbara talking to Artemio Bravo. Barbara calls Lili a drug addict and warns her that she is capable of anything, and if she let’s the cat out of the bag, her son is in danger and that she will be watched night and day. And the rest of the Elisaldes will have the same fate as Montserrat – death. Nobody is find out about Artemio Bravo.

Quarter moon rising and we’re at Monty’s funeral. Soledad comforts the kids, Daddy cries – Barb watches and gives out bad vibes. Meanwhile, Lili is in a straight jacket tied up in a bed somewhere.

We now have a complete change of scene – we’re transported to a gym class and non other than Padre Bosco calls out Ed’s name. They embrace, but the good Padre tells him that his mom won’t be able to visit him as frequently as promised. Boy looks shocked.

Toluca – 1992 – Soledad gives the goodby blessing to Fer – the other kids are all crying. Barb looks so smug as Fernanda is escorted to the plane and dumb daddy looks happy. Now in Madrid – we know that because we hear flamenco music. Looks like a girl’s school – little Ferdanda is on the lawn dreaming of Ed – she dreams him into a real person – he’s supposed to be dreaming of her. They’re co-dreamers.

At her house, Soledad receives letters addressed to Ed from Fer. But she says these letters can’t reach their destination.

Looks like Barb and Daddy got married – I hear wedding music. He looks so happy, and she looks cold and smug. Part 2 of the big plan has succeeded.

At Pueblo – Soledad prays about the situation between the patron and the murderess and her problem with Ed – she has to keep her mouth shut. Sole feels like Barb’s accomplice because she’s kept her mouth shut. And, she accepts whatever punishment the Virgin Mary imposes upon her. She’s at Mary’s mercy.

Soledad looks at the letters again – she has two boxes. One box is marked with “Fernanda” and the other marked “Eduardo”. All these years she has hidden the letters in these boxes.

Harvard - The big boys are practicing football. We know the good looking one is Ed because he has the magic medal. Of course, it’s TMBMOE. Later he’s in church praying. We know that because he’s in church and is moving his lips.

It’s now 2007 and Fernanda is receiving her diploma. Barbara looks disgusted. Fer dedicates her success to her mother and nana Soledad. Soledad is very happy – who is the guy with the scraggly hair. Daddy’s real proud of her – he’s got a job for her in the company as a director in her specialty. It was Barbara’s idea – can you believe it. We know Barb’s older ‘cause her hair is messy. Fernanda can’t wait to get started.

2007 – Eduardo is giving his dissertation? And, he is congratulated – must have been a good one. Ed graduated summa cum laude – redhead Steve, his friend, is ready to party. (Just an aside – Steve was Dr. Brown in Como Agua para chocolate.) But Ed is serious, and he wants to get going. Ed reminisces that the day his mother sent him off he tried to do good. He got a scholarship to Harvard – something his mother deserves – now he can marry Fernanda. The two of them are just a pair of workaholics.

Current time: Fernanda carries on with Margarita about all the things they've seen in the country. Fernanda is wearing a straw hat, boots and jeans and seems to be in charge. She’s just a country girl educated in Spain. She is greeted with respect as she goes in the building. Barbara is talking to mystery man and reports that everything is going as planned – she’s still responsible for destroying the Elisalde family. Damian is part of the plan – he stole Fer’s heart. She says that Fernanda’s spouse is going to be the catalyst the starts the downward spiral of the family.

Fer walks in greeting everyone – and asks for daddy who is in his office. Barbara and Anibal are talking company policy. Anibal is apparently interested in a new plant – Daddy has aged. Fer hugs and kisses everyone. Fer apparently actually likes Barbara. What a fool. Daddy wants a report – Fer tells her how well received they were in the country. The Elisaldes are going to contribute to the growth of a product of their state. Apparently not a money maker, but good press. Daddy – at Barbara’s direction – tells Anibal that Fer is in charge of developing artisan products, etc. Fer claps and hugs daddy.

An aged Sole who is now sick and couphing is walking and comes upon a grown up Jacinto who is on a bike – she keeps on about minding her own business. Sole doesn’t want help from anyone. J tells her that he’s heard from Ed – she reminds him not to talk to her about it. J is exasperated – so am I.

New York – Sinatra introduces us to Ed who keeps saying manana – that finally after 15 years he’s going to return to his country. He remembers his mother’s words and kisses Fer’s medal again. Times have changed mama – he now has a future to offer Fer. Enter Steve who speaks in Spanish and English – Ed tells Steve that he’s going to Mexico tomorrow – Steve gives him his card with his numbers – and says he’d like to meet his mother and girlfriend and not to marry without letting him know and that this gringo wants to be best man at his wedding. Ed says – there’s no other woman for him. Is he in for a surprise.

Fer has lots to do, her secretary is taking many notes. In walks guy with glasses and moustache – I wonder if he breaks phones. He and Fer kiss – they’re planning a wedding – he says that with Barbara’s help everything will turn out great – Fer has some reservations – she seems to be pulling away from Damian – Fer insists she has to solve work-related problems, and he says he’ll go wherever she goes.

Back at the E’s hacienda – Sole is coughing and it is obvio that she is very sick. Sole wants to talk to the patron – but Barbara enters – and puts the kebosh on that. She grabs Soledad and asks why she’s in the hacienda where she’s been forbidden to enter. They talk – Barbara continues the threats – Sole says her son knows nothing Bar threatens him with death. Mom says Ed will never return – is that why she hid the letters. She says she’s all he’s got and if she dies – Bar says everything has to go as is – and she should never come near the Elizalde house. Get lost Sole.

Anibal wants to know what dad thinks of the plan. Enter Bar – son is sad cause Dad doesn’t approve – son is wary of Bar. Daddy has an appointment with the doctor. Bar reminds him about the chemical plant and wedding preps. He’s going to the cardiologist. Looks like dad’s days are numbered. Son wants who know what just happened – she double crossed him. The powerded milk plan is a go???

Fer and Damian caress and look at floral arrangements. The maid tells Jacinto and Margarita that Bar wouldn’t let Sol speak to the patron. They discuss what to do. Margarita is warned not to go help Sole. I think that Sole went to see Padre B to make her final confession and get it off her chest. At the clinic/church Sole and a doctor/nurse – apparently Sole wanted the job of arranging the flowers in the church – but someone else got it – the woman tells her it is out of her hands. She doesn’t want any problems with Dr. Obregon. Sole want to see Lili – the lady is Adolfina – please begs Sole let me say goodbye to her.

Damian and Fer show up at the clinic even though it’s not visiting hours – Meanwhile Sole succeeds in seeing Liliana who is unresponsive and looks like she’s had a lobotomy. Will Sole and Fer run into each other? Break time.

Damian wants to be with Fer – but duty calls and somehow they'll get back the seven days they’ll lose when they’re not together.

Sole comforts Lili and talks to her and calls her Palomita – the day will come when everyone will find out but, who knows what’s going to happen. She coughs – Saying goodbye to life is easy –The painful part is saying goodbye to you. I don’t think I’m going to be able to see you again. A mother always wants to be at her children’s side – this is the way she has suffered – she’s going to leave Ed all alone. The good is that he’s far away – it would be terrible to leave him at the mercy of Barbara, the hyena – the worst is yet to come.

Sole reaches into her bag, pulls out a box – this box contains the secret that she’s known about all their lives. She’s going to hide it because if she dies –if Ed were here he would find it – he would be in danger – she doesn’t want to sentence him to death – so she’s going to leave it here in Lili’s room for her to find. Sole says that God knows that she's tried to save your family. So she hides the secret in the room of someone who is catatonic? She knows of a secret board that lifts up, and puts the box and some chocolates for Lili in the hiding place. Sole tells Lili that If Lili never leaves here it will be because the Elisalde family deserves some other destiny.

Then Sole says, forgive me for not having fought harder against these bad people –for fifteen years they’ve killed my soul – May god have mercy on you (the Elisaldes).

Advances –

Ed at the airport – looking all dapper in sunglasses, neck scarf and jacket while Jacinto looks for him. Anibal and Barbara lock horns – the stage is set and Fer and Ed meet up with each other.

Labels: manana

.....gets someone else to pay his light bill?????




Well, they say a picture is worth a thousand words, so I hoped by including them, I wouldn't have to type as much. Didn't work as well as I hoped to prevent typing, and I wasn't able to get them in the beginning, but hopefully you'll enjoy!

















Pato is instructing the "family" how to put up the tent and that it is important to have air in it and then we'll have a bonfire, and...she says he doesn't fit, he's not going. Chava thinks he will fit and he wants him and isn't going without him.



The "parents" argue about this like a couple of kids and it turns out that Pato agrees not to go, so Chava will get to go.

Labels: Tontas

Review scenes: Eduardo presents the FE heart to Fernandita in the hay loft (sorry no hay but flower petals), Barbara interrupts the world's sweetest kiss, Monserrat (MRat) has another tantrum, Barbara (Baba) gets phone orders from Artemio (Cigarman) to undo or obliterate (deshacer) MRat. Barbara plants more fear in Gonzolo's (Gonzo) head that the escuincle Eduardo is going to corrupt the whole household.

Baba assures the whining MRat they should cut off (cortar de tajo) the bad influence of Soledad on the children. MRat gives Baba the order to fire Soledad as soon as she returns from delivering Eduardo to boarding school.

Jacinto tells a crying Fernanda that Eduardo left her a message. She tells him she is forbidden to go to Soledad's house.

In the school Ed takes out his picture of his late father and young mother in wedding garb. Then reads Gardenia's letter that she will wait for him to grow up and return so they can be novios. He says sorry Gardenia but when I grow up I am going to marry Fernanda. We get the filmy memory of the young lovers swinging in the light. Fernanda, on her bed, writes don't forget our promise (juramento).

Soledad returns alone, enters the kitchen, none of the help will speak to her. Who are you, Soledad asks the new stranger, but Baba, everywhere you want to be, answers she is the new cook. She orders Soledad to her little cottage, they will call her if they need something and then tells the other kitchen help that Soledad is prohibited from entering the kitchen again. Soledad tries again to get to argue her case, but Baba threatens her that if she causes trouble, Eduardo will lose his school position since she is in charge of paying the expenses of the school. When Gonzo appears seeing them unhappy Soledad tells him she was just worried about Eduardo's expenses. Gonzo assures Soledad that Baba will take care of everything. He has complete confidence in Baba as he does in her. When he leaves, Baba says do you have any doubts that your powers have been extinguished here, cook?

Liliana smokes in her room pensively. she goes outside to the balcony and sees Baba in yet another stunning girlie suit coming into the house. She puts out her cigarette and rushes to follow Baba . Lili says I have to know who this viper is talking to. Baba says, I have good news, I have nullified Soledad the cook. what next, Cigarman gruffs, next you have to do away with (deshacer) MRat, we need to make Gonzo a widow (viudo). Lili's windows suddenly open and her papers are making waffling noises, Baba slides upstairs and sees Lili on the floor without alarming her, she goes back down to the phone and says something has complicated things, I will call you later. Lili says to herself, Baba is going to kill my mama. Lili runs to find help, Baba goes to Lili's room to plant some evidence conveniently in her pocket. This little gift is reserved for you. Lili comes to the kitchen looking for her Nana Soledad. Who are you? I am Porfiria, the new cook. The sous-chef says, by orders of the boss (patron) Soledad doesn't work here anymore.

Said MRat, I mean Monserrat, comes looking for Liliana for some unknown reason, she doesn't seem interested in parenting most of the time, bursts into Liliana's room, sees the suspicious white pills, lines of cocaine and cigarettes. Lili comes in what is this, this isn't mine, only the cigarettes but not the other things. Don't touch me says the motherly MRat. This is finished you need to admit you are a drug addict you need to leave this house. Mama you are in danger, you are the only danger yells MRat. [Lili is bien framed!.] The black horse runs with eyes all wild.

Look for my husband, demands hysterical MRat, tell him to come immediately to the house something very serious has occurred. She takes pills, gasps, grabs for her oxygen, finally gets the mask on, cries and lies down while gasping (oh the irony of it all). Sweet Fernanda says she wants to talk to her Mama so she can look for glowworms (luciérnegas), when Baba demands to know what she is doing. She says your mom and Lili are having another argument-discussion don't bother them now, go play. Baba approaches the bedroom.

Soledad approaches the priest, Padre Bosco, who says she should be preparing the supper (merienda) of the Elizades. She is fleeing the Baba and tells him that BG has made a lie out of a child's prank (travesura de la niña) resulting in Eduardo being sent to a boarding school in the capital, and now she has lost her job in the kitchen. Soledad can accept that her child studies far away. But she hates being separated from him. I did it for loyalty to my patron and to be close to these children in my care. Now I cannot even see my darlings. I will take care of my son's school We will be poor together. I will tell the patron.

We see Eduardo smelling the cafeteria food and keeping his face straight, what a lovely boy, no whiner here. Fernanda sees Jacinto and gives him a letter meant for Eduardo.

Baba enters the MRat's chamber and sees the sleeping rat, takes off her mask, MRat jerks awake, then says when my husband comes tell him I must speak with him immediately. Unsuspecting, closes her eyes. Baba applies a satin brocade pillow over MRat's face and holds while the weak woman struggles just for a few seconds then arms fall uselessly on the bed. Baba efficiently removes the brocade pillow, closes MRat's eyes, puts her gold virgin medal back in place, fixes everything neatly, replaces phone in cradle. Smiles at her tidy work.

Liliana crying, knocks on Mom's door. Baba, hides, goes out the other door and Lili enters, sees mom with oxymask on . She knows her mom wants to nap and not hear or see her but she must tell deadmomrat that she heard Baba discuss with some man on the phone that she is going to kill her. She must have put the drugs in her room, I didn't do it. You must believe me, The cigs were mine but not the rest of it, I don't do drugs, Mama. I don't want this woman to do you harm. Baba, who of course has been listening to this tender warning from just outside, runs back in asking what Liliana has done, tries to rouse the Momrat, feels her pulse What did YOU do Liliana, what did you do? Gonzo appears as Baba shrills, your mom is dead. she's dead. Gonzo and Lili look horrified.

Liliana screams, Fernanda hears down in the garden. Lili yells killer, killer (asesino). Gonzo grabs her, Baba says she is very disturbed (alterado), Baba calls emergency or appears to, the children are ordered out. Liliana does get one good hair pulling in yelling killer, killer again. Baba smiles and says it was easier than I imagined. She calls Dr. Obregon, we need your services. Pay strict attention to what I am going to say. Gonzo shakes the bejees out of Liliana , do you know what you are going to do if you don't control yourself. Imagine the trauma for your little brothers and sisters. Gonzo goes gonzo when he sees the cocaine and cigarette evidence, and pills, Yea we will talk later, how I need to worry about your mother, all this will be resolved. But Gonzo locks Lilli in her room and Baba says the ambulance is coming. What happened? says permanently confused looking Gonzo. They had a strong confrontation (enfrentamiento) when Mamarat discovered Lili drugging her self. She got the oxymask on and she went to see her later maybe her heart couldn't stand such a strain. The autopsy that he cause of neath wasn't natural. Gonzo is wretched, starts to collapse on the stairs of death. but Baba strong arms him. Just then Soledad picks the worst moment to come in and tell Gonzo she will take her son out of the fancy school, she will go to the city to find work to be near him and wants a job recommendation. Gonzo repeats what I just said, she chose (escoger) the worst time to come, Momrat just up and died! The children are watchilng tv and wondering what is going on. Fernanda wants then to be concerned about Mama but Camilo plays games and says MRat is always sick. Soledad is praying at the MRat's side. Where is this ambulance, Gonzo what happended he asks Baba.

Liliana and her mother were having an awful row about her drug taking and now MRat is dead. Here comes Dr. Obregon who arrives with proper little black bag and requisite horn-rimmed glasses to emphasize his qualifications.
While he takes MRat's pulse and shakes his head, Gonzo clutches Sole's shoulders for strength, not Baba's, but Baba just rolls her eyes, her moment will come. Let's see: Eduardo has been sent away, Soledad fired and now Monserrat unplugged for good. Good work Baba, Cigarman will be proud.

Jacinto hears that Monserrat is dead (se petateo = kicked the bucket) from Gardenia. Gonzo tells Soledad he is incapable of giving this awful news to his poor children without collapsing (derrumbarse). I beg you, I beg you, he whines, please, they are in the television room. Soledad with sad braids bowed, goes off. Baba watches all, goes too Señor Elizalde, the results of the autopsy show her death was a homicide. [How did this get resolved so quickly in a matter of minutes or at most hours,] She goes on, I know you are really upset it turns out Dr. Obregon is a psychiatrist. He looks like his coat doesn't fit and he looks uncertain of his role, one wonders if he is a doctor at all, but asks where the young woman is. Gonzo takes him to her room. Soledad consoles Fernanda and young boy . She tells them that Lord needed their Mommy but she would never abandon them but she will always belong to you, a mother never abandons her children. Camilo is invited over but screams it is a lie, and he leaves. Lili yells at the Doctor and her father, she doesn't need a docter. Why don't you leave me alone with your daughter. My father doesn't believe me. Your father is very effected by your mothers' death and you need to relax. I have this nice medication for you so you can relax. I didn't kill my mama , it was Baba the assistant . yes i believe you Now get into bed relax rest , relax, rest. Wild eyed black horse runs again.

Gonzo wrings his hands and depends already on Baba for everything, I wish this was a bad dream or a nightmare.(really he said: mal sueño o pesadilla which are pretty much the same thing) She asks the entering doctor to speak with the Gonzo. Your daughter had a psychological breakdown (brote psicologico) from taking too many drugs.

Soledad is calming Lili who says I didn't kill my Mom. Soledad says I'm sure you didn't. Lili continues, I heard someone order Baba to kill Mama. What was his name, Artemio Bravo, which Soledad repeats knowingly. Baba breaks in again, every where you want to be. Soledad yells the story to Baba, but Baba threatens her that she will stay in her house so Baba can watch her night and day, and if she doesn't want to see her son hurt and he better stay in his precious boarding school and if Baba hears that Soledad has revealed anything , Soledad better worry about the same fate as Monserrat suffered happening to her, her snotnosed freak (engendro mucoso) and the Elizade children.

Next Chapter: Oh lucky, lucky Pasofino, you get to describe the appearance of the real Fernando as the grown up Eduardo. Baba keeps busy over the years getting everyone out of her way, threatening the lovely Soledad who doesn't age well while Baba's hairspray keeps everything in place.

Labels: manana

Marisela says that BP was killed by a blowpipe dart just like Orestes Prieto and everyone knows that Melquíades is the only one who knows how to use a blowgun. DB says that anyone can use a blowgun. Once agains she asks if Santos believes her. Carmelito mentions that BP had been beat up before he was killed. In comes Mujica to ask after Santos. DB gets that 'deer in the headlights' look.

El Sapo tells Fausto that he wants the news spread all over town that DB ordered Melquíades to kill BP. Fausto tells his boss what a brilliant strategy that is. He is killing two birds with one stone.

Antonio & Cecilia fall into each other's arms and onto the bed until Cecilia gets control of herself and tells Antonio that he has a wife with a child on the way and she isn't going to get between them. She tells Antonio that he has to leave.

DB tells all those assembled at Altamira that she wouldn't be stupid enough to leave a body lying around where anyone could find it. She says that someone else must be behind all this. She says that that there is no proof against her. She and Melquíades leave Altamira. Marisela says that she is sure that DB is the murderer. Santos replies that they need proof. Santos goes upstairs to rest and Mujica follows him. He tells Santos that he saw DB and Melquíades beating BP up a little while ago. He says that he sure DB is the murderer because she called BP a traitor because he wouldn't tell her about a certain 'Sapo'. DB said that she would kill BP.

DB tells Melquíades that she is sure that El Sapo is behind the attack on Santos and the murder of BP. Melquíades says that BP was working for El Sapo and he deserves what he got. DB agrees but points out that before he died, BP undoubtedly told El Sapo all he knew about DB and her activities. DB says that they have to think carefully about what they are going to do and above all they have to be alert. The bastard won't just sit around.

Santos tells Mujica that in spite of the fact Mujica saw BP with DB and heard her threaten him, he isn't sure that DB killed BP. Mujica asks how much more proof does he need? Santos replies that DB isn't stupid and it would be very stupid to leave the body where anyone could find it. Santos says that he is sure that there is someone else behind all this. "You continue to deny that she killed Balbino?" asks Marisela. "Until I am convinced otherwise," says Santos. "Do what you want, then," says Marisela and leaves.

Antonio tells Lucía that she is pale and has bags under her eyes (ojeras, a new word for me. It's not something they talk about a lot on novelas and certainly a more useful word than, say, 'blowpipe.') Lucía changes the subject and says how worried she was that Santos was standing right next to Santos when he was shot. He urges her to go to bed and he will bring her a sweet roll and some warm milk. She says that he is good to her.

Santos comes to see Marisela because she didn't come and say goodnight to him. He asks why she is so jealous of DB. Marisela denies being jealous but Santos says that every time he mentions her name, Marisela's face changes. "Why can't you understand once and for all that I only love you?" Santos asks her. "Because you don't understand that this can't be," replies Marisela. "You don't want me to love you?" asks Santos. ('¿No quieres que te quiera?' using the verb querer in both of its meanings, to want and to love.) "No," replies Marisela. "You don't want it?" repeats Santos. Marisela, "Yes," says Marisela. "Yes or no?" asks Santos. "Maybe," says Mariela.

Mujica tells Bartolo that DB might have killed BP and arranged for Santos to be shot. He says that she has a long list of killings but she has been smart enough that no one can prove she was involved. "But this time it's different," says Bartolo. Fausto comes in and accuses Mujica of doing nothing about DB's crimes.

Santos says to Marisela that if she thinks about it, she will realize that DB didn't kill BP or try to kill him. "Then who was it?" asks Marisela. Santos says that he doesn't know but he thinks someone is working in the shadows to do a lot of harm to DB. Santos asks Marisela if she understands why he has doubts about whether DB is guilty. Marisela reluctantly says that she understands. Santos says that DB should get the benefit of the doubt until there is an investigation and Mujica gathers the evidence to determine who is behind all this. He asks her again not to be jealous and says that he only loves her. She tells him not to kiss her and he leaves.

Seeing rocky times ahead, Mujica flatters Pernalete into becoming the police chief again. Pernalete tells Federica and Josefa that they can't continue running their whorehouse in his house. When Josefa shows him that in a month, the prostitution business brings in more than Pernalete earned in a year as police chief, he has a change of heart.

Eustaquia brings coffee to DB and finds her fully dressed in bed with her hand on her gun. DB says that she is lost and alone. She says that while she is at El Miedo, her enemies are getting together and that cursed Sapo will win the game. She tells Eustaquia that she doesn't know what to do. She asks Eustaquia to help her. Eustaquia's only advice is to take her money and leave but DB says that she won't escape her destiny without a fight.


Mujica drops the bombshell on the new police chief, Pernalete, that BP has been murdered by a poisoned dart and everyone believes DB is responsible. Mujica suggests that Melquíades be detained.


Marisela yells at Santos for coming down for breakfast. He agrees to go back to his room if Marisela will come and keep him company.

Juan Primito runs in to tell DB that a car from the police station is heading towards El Miedo and it is full of soldiers. DB realizes that the police are coming for Melquíades and she tells him to make himself scarce. He doesn't want to abandon her but she orders him and JP to leave. She says that she can face these imbeciles alone.

Lucía comes to play with Toñito. Cecilia asks where Antonio is and Lucía says that he had to go to San Fernando. Cecilia also notices that Lucía is pale and insists that she go and see Dr. Arias right away.

Marisela tells Genoveva that she is confused. She doesn't know what Santos feels for her or what he feels for DB. Genoveva asks if Marisela continues to be in love with Santos and she replies that she is but she isn't sure whether he has stopped caring about DB. She says that she doesn't know what to believe about whether DB was behind Santos' shooting. She says that she is afraid that someone will try and kill Santos again and this time they won't fail.

Pernalete and his men find DB waiting for them. She notes that he has become police chief again and says that his pack of dogs (jauría) is commanded by a mangy dog (perro sarnoso). She says that Melquíades isn't at El Miedo and Pernalete orders his men to search. DB accuses Pernalete of betraying her. Pernalete says that there has been a crime and he is just following the evidence. BP was killed by a poisoned dart used by Indians and Melquíades is an Indian. DB says that it was some other Indian because Melquíades is innocent. His men tell Pernalete that Melquíades isn't at El Miedo. Pernalete says that DB is hiding him and that is contrary to the law. "In my house and in all of the Arauca," replies DB, "I am the law ('la ley soy yo'). What? Have you forgotten that?" Pernalete says that she will have to come with them to the police station for questioning. "Over my dead body," says DB. Pernalete orders his men to handcuff her and she slaps him and calls him a traitor. "You will pay for this." she says as she is handcuffed. JP runs after the truck as she is driven away.


Genoveva tells Marisela that DB is a plague and should be put away before she causes more damage. Marisela says that the worst thing is that Santos always defends her. Genoveva says that is why she won't fall in love with anyone. Love is too complicated. Marisela says that she can tell from Genoveva's face that she is crazy about Pajarote. Geno denies it and leaves in a huff. Marisela admits that she is crazy for Santos.

JP comes to Santos' window to tell him that DB has been arrested. Santos tells him to go home. He will take care of it. He tells Marisela that he intends to go see DB.

Dr. Arias tells Cecilia that Lucía has very high blood pressure and it may be eclampsia, a serious condition that could result in the rupture of an artery that could be fatal for her and the baby.

Santos tells Marisela that DB needs him and he is going to help her as a lawyer because he is sure that she didn't have anything to do with the murder of BP. When he leaves, Marisela says to herself that he is defending DB because he loves her. She says that if he is going after her, she will leave Altamira because he doesn't need her anymore.

Mujica tells Bartolo that he will return to his job as Pernalete's secretary and Bartolo can be his secretary. Bartolo doesn't think that a job as secretary to the secretary sounds very good. Mujica says that he can return to being an unemployed professional if he wants to.

Tigre tells Leon that DB was the one who protected them. If she is in jail, how are they going to live? Everyone in Progress hates them. Leon replies that it might be time for them to leave because their business with DB is ruined. Fausto tells them that their business in Progress could continue when they are ready to change bosses.

Pernalete tells DB that based on accusations received, she is being charged with first degree murder. At this moment, Santos comes in saying to Pernalete that DB isn't responsible for the murder of BP and that he, more than anyone, knows that. Pernalete says that he has an creditable accusation and he has no choice under the law than to act on it. Santos asks who made the accusation and Pernalete says that it was an influential person named Fidel Castell. Santos asks to speak alone with DB. Pernalete agrees reluctantly.

Marisela comes looking for Cecila at the house but Casilda says that she is at Dr. Arias' office.

Pernalete tells Mujica that because of him and this Fidel Castell, he has big problems with DB. She is in jail and Melquíades is at large with his blowpipe. "Hazards of the job ('gajes del oficio')," says Mjuica with no sympathy, "Hazards of the job!" Pernalete orders Mujica to send a telegram to San Fernando telling the authorities in the Capital to take charge of his case. He says that if this Fidel Castell wants to ruin DB, he can do it himself. Pernalete says that he is washing his hands of the matter.

DB thanks Santos and says, "You realized that you still love me?" Santos says that he is only here because he wants justice. Santos says that he believes that she didn't kill BP but he needs to know why she and Melquíades beat him up so badly.

Mujica is telling himself that he doubts that Pernalete's telegram will save him from DB's vengeance when he runs into Marisela. He tells her that Santos is in the police station as DB's lawyer in the the BP case.

Fausto brings Los Mondragon to see El Sapo. El Sapo says that they are here because they don't want to run the same risk as BP.

DB tells Santos that BP was involved with the people who tried to kill Santos and are trying to harm her. She says that BP wouldn't give her a name. Santos tells her that she already had a name, El Sapo. Santos tells her that in all the time he has known her, she has told him lies or half truths. This time her liberty is at stake. He asks her to tell him the truth this time - "Who is this El Sapo and why does he want to harm you?"

Labels: barbara

From last night: Liliana is eavesdropping on Babs who is on the phone we presume with Cigarman. Outside, the mass for Fernanda’s first communion is finishing up. Crabby Mom is overwhelmed with pride for her “good” daughter.

Liliana hears Babs tell Cigarman that she hasn’t been able to call him until now, but she’s taking advantage of the fact that the family is at the mass. She tells him nobody suspects anything. Liliana thinks to herself she has to find out who Babs is speaking with and runs off to another room to pick up the phone and listen, but stops when she hears someone asking her what she’s doing. Babs tells Cigarman that the plan to seduce Gonzalo Elizalde isn’t working, he’s just a boring old man who only has eyes for his wife the hypochondriac. Cigarman asks what’s up with Soledad Cruz, the cook. She tells him she’s started to take authority away from her, and Cigarman reminds her that Soledad’s “Aquilles Heel” is her son, Eduardo. He tells her to “finish him”.

Turns out Soledad is the one who saw Liliana trying to listen in on Bab’s call and she reproaches Liliana, but Lili tries to explain. Soledad and Liliana talk about how awful it is that Soledad and her son weren’t invited to the first communion because of Babs. Lili asks Soledad if she’s the only one who realizes that Babs is a snake, but Soledad says no, she sees it too.

Back at the elegant party, Fernanda sees Eduardo’s yellow flag and runs off to the secret hideaway to be with him. Gonzalo looks for Babs, but Crabby Mom wants him to bring Liliana to the party.

Eduardo waits in the secret hideaway that’s glowing with sunshine.

Crabby Mom is yelling at Lili for not showing up at the party, but Soledad tells a lie about Lili being sick and covers for her, Lili is grateful.

Eduardo carves his and Fernanda’s initials in the wood at the secret hideaway. Fernanda arrives and sees the trail of flowers he’s left for her. These two kids are so damn cute and in love. Lots of warm fuzzies in this scene.

At the party Gonzalo asks Babs to find Fernanda. Babs sees Eduardo’s yellow flag in the tree and tells little Erica she has to tell here where Fernanda is or Fernanda’s parents will be mad. Erica spills her guts.

In the hideaway Fernanda and Eduardo are talking. He says when he saw her in front of the altar he thanked G-d for bringing her into his life, and she says when she grows up she wants to marry someone just like him. He gives her the silver necklace with their initials, and she loves it. He goes to put it on her but switches out the leather string for her chain. She puts her medallion of La Virgen de la Luz on the leather string and gives it to him to wear. She asks him to promise to have it with him forever. She tells him to close his eyes and she gives him a sweet kiss on the lips. BadAss Babs comes in and scares the hell out of the kids (and the birds) and fakes shock at seeing them kissing.

At the party the celebration continues. Babs drags Fernanda back to the party to tell her mother where she’s been. Fernanda clutches the charm Eduardo gave her and confesses to her mother, who flips out and tells her she’s not allowed to be friends with the servants, especially that “indio” Eduardo. His mother, Soledad, is in the background listening to this. [Calling someone an “indio” in Mexico is as bas as calling someone the “n” word here in the US. It really has nothing to do with whether the person is of indigenous blood, mestizo, etc., or not. It’s more about how dark the person’s skin is, in a case like this. Other times it’s used to say how dumb someone is.] Babs tells Montserrat that this shouldn’t be discussed in front of the guests. Fernanda runs off to her room. Babs tells Montse she found the kids kissing, and says she thinks Eduardo tricked Fernanda into going there with him. Mom’s ready to keel over from her asthma. Babs walks off. Gonzalo walks up and Montse fills him in on what’s been going on with his daughter and Soledad’s son.

In Fernanda’s room Babs tries to explain why she told on her. Babs fakes tears and concern, and says Fernanda’s mother is thinking about sending her to Fernanda to live in a convent, and that her father is tired of all the fighting in the house. Fernanda hides the necklace Eddie gave her under her dress. Babs tricks Fernanda into telling her mother it was all Eduardo’s fault, but Fernanda doesn’t want to lie and get Eduardo punished.

Soledad is getting her son’s side of the story. He tells her the truth about what happened.

Montse is screaming at Fernanda. She tells Babs to Gonzalo she wants to talk to him. Babs walks out looking pleased.

Soledad tries to tell Eduardo there can never be anything between him and Fernanda, and forbids him to go near her or the “big house” again. He cries.

In Gonzalo’s office, and in front of Montse, Babs tells Gonzalo that Eduardo tried to take advantage of Fernanda, and who knows what would have happened if she hadn’t gotten there in time. Montse says Eduardo has to leave the hacienda, or what happens when the kids grow up will be on his conscience. Montse wants him to throw Soledad and her son out of the house. He says he’ll fix the problem but Soledad stays. Montse, wheezing desperately, leaves Babs and Gonzo in the office alone. Babs plants the idea in Gonzo’s head that it would be a good gesture to send Eduardo far away to study, and at the same time it would keep Fernanda safe.

Liliana finds Fernanda crying on her bed and learns what’s happened. The mother comes in and yells at Liliana again. She smacks Lili across the face and sends her to her room. Fernanda cries on her bed.

Half-moon in the sky. Now we have a split screen with the two kids looking out the window pining over each other.

The next day Fernanda sees Jacinto, Eddie’s friend. Jacinto tells Fernanda that Eduardo is never allowed to come near her again.

Soledad and Gonzo are going to have some coffee and talk about what’s happened between the kids.

Stupid Anibal kisses Erica to make his little brother Santiago jealous. Anibal, who has the hairline of the Wolfman, is a complete SOB who looks way too old to be kissing a little girl like Erica. (BTW, who names their kid Anibal? Was there ever a Anibal or Hannibal in history that was a good guy?) Poor Erica doesn’t realize she’s been used twice in the last two days for other people’s dirty work.

Gonzo has explained to Soledad about her son going off to school to study in Mexico City, he tells her he’ll pay for everything, and it’s a wonderful school and at least her sib will have a chance for a good education and won’t be stuck there in the pueblo to become nothing more than a worker. Eddie listens outside the door. He tells her to think about his proposal, and not to deny her son a better future.

Babs is visiting Evil Cigarman and updates him about Eddie going off to school. He tells her he wants the Elizalde’s destroyed, and that their agony be long and painful.

Soledad is getting ready to take her son to Mexico City. They’re both crying, and she tells him one day he’ll understand why it’s for his own good he’s being sent away to school.

On our new Staircase of Doom, Fernanda cries that she wants to say goodbye to Eddie but her mother says no and sends her back to her room. Mom takes a big hit off her inhaler. After Montse walks away, Liliana comes out of her room with a sneaky look on her face.

Back at the office, Gonzo is sadly telling Babs that at this very moment Soledad is saying goodbye to her son. Gonzo wonders out loud if he’s doing the right thing, and Babs says the separation will be hard for the kids, but it’s the best thing for Fernanda.

The kids have come to say goodbye to Eduardo. Liliana comes to sneak Fernanda off to say goodbye also. Eduardo is sad that Fernanda can’t come to say goodbye. All the kids are crying, as the bus pulls up to take Eddie away. The bus pulls away just as Fernanda arrives screaming his name, she runs after the bus and he runs to the back window to see her. They scream each other’s names, and she’s left standing on the dirt road crying. Liliana tries to console her.

Soledad says goodbye to her son in front of his new school, and tells him she hopes that this sacrifice will be worth it. She’s sure that his father, who is in heaven, is very happy that their son will have a good future.

Montse is thanking Babs for taking care of the problem of Fernanda and Eduardo, but that the only thing that still bothers her is having to see Soledad’s face every day. Babs offers to take care of that problem as well, she can hire another cook. But, Montse says, her husband doesn’t want Soledad to leave the hacienda. Babs says Soledad can still live in her house out in the middle of the fields, but far away from Montse and Gonzo’s kids, and she’ll no longer be a bad influence over them. Montse gives Babs the green light to go ahead with the plan, and says when Soledad gets back this afternoon to give her the bad news that she’s no longer the cook.

Previews: Cigarman gives Babs instructions to get rid of Montse, so Babs can marry Gonzo. He says this is the order of Artemio Bravo. Liliana is listening in on another phone. Gonzo confronts Babs with Liliana’s accusation.

Labels: manana

[Your recapper is going to be on vacation starting on March 3 through March 14. I am actually going birdwatching in Venezuela but not to the llanos.]

Santos is taken into the doctor's office while Marisela continues to accuse DB of shooting him.

The shooter makes his getaway.

BP is drinking and making himself obnoxious in the bar. He says to himself that no one can accuse him of shooting Santos because when Santos was shot, he was in the bar drinking.

Pernalete tells El Sapo that he is on his side and asks what he has to do. El Sapo replies that Pernalete will get detailed instructions. El Sapo tells Pernalete to use the formal 'usted' with him.
El Sapo tells Pernalete that two women that live with him have to follow El Sapo's orders. If they don't cooperate, El Sapo will have them sent to jail.

Marisela, DB, Antonio and Cecilia wait impatiently for news about Santos' condition. DB continues to deny that she had Santos shot but nobody believes her.

Dr. Arias says that Santos survived by a miracle. The bullet missed all his vital organs. Santos wakes up and asks where he is.

When DB insists on going in to see how Santos is doing, Marisela stops her from doing so at gunpoint.

Dr. Arias says that the bullet just missed Santos' pancreas and grazed a rib. He tells Santos to remember this date because today he was born again. Santos asks who could have wanted to kill him.

Dr. Arias tells the folks in the waiting room that Santos will be ok. DB wants to see him but Dr. Arias says that Santos wants to see Marisela. When Marisela comes into the examining room, Santos is sitting up. He asks Marisela to tell him that she didn't sign the property transfer deed. She says that she didn't. He asks her to tell him that she loves him. She answers him with a kiss.




DB burst into into the room and see Santos and Marisela kissing. She asks how Marisela dares to kiss the her mother's man that way. Marisela says that DB was never her mother and Santos isn't her man. "Yes, he is my man!" says DB, "His arms, his lips, his kisses have been mine and now you are trying to rob me. What kind of daughter are you?" Dr. Arias tells DB to calm down and Santos to lie down. Before she leaves, DB tells Santos that she had nothing to do with shooting him.

DB tells Melquíades that someone is trying to harm her. He says that BP is involved. DB agrees and says that BP will lead her to her enemy.

Pernalete, Federica, Josefa and Mujica discuss the pickle that they are in. They have to do what El Sapo tells them or go to jail but if they go against DB, she will kill them.

El Sapo is furious to learn that Santos survived.

Santos comes back to Altamira and Marisela tells Genoveva that she is going to take care of Santos.

Melquíades beats the crap out of BP but he won't say anything about who he is working for. Mujica witnesses DB's questioning of BP.

DB tells Eustaquia what happened to Santos and that she found Marisela kissing Santos. She also tells Eustaquia that she is sure that El Sapo is behind all this.

BP tells El Sapo and Fausto what happened. When he says that everyone in town saw DB threatening him, he suddenly becomes more useful to El Sapo dead than alive.

Santos tells Antonio that it wasn't DB who tried to kill him but neither he nor Marisela believe him.

The terneras, their husbands, Melesio and the Altamira vaqueros discuss what happened to Santos. Gervasia takes the opportunity to announce that she and Carmelito are expecting.
Bartolo comes in and Altagracia runs over and kisses him. He wipes off her kiss telling her that kissing spreads infectious disease.

Marisela accuses Santos of defending DB because he still loves her. He says that he loves Marisela but he knows DB and she wouldn't have done that.

El Sapo tells BP that just like in chess, sometimes to have to sacrifice a pawn to save the queen. Fausto kills BP by stabbing him with a poisoned dart. El Sapo tells Fausto to dump BP's body where they discussed and to make sure that everyone sees the dart so that there will be no doubt that DB killed BP.


Antonio comes to see Toñito. Casilda tells him to go to Toñito's room by himself. She has to go back to the kitchen because the beans are burning. Antonio doesn't know which room is the baby's and of course he opens the door on Cecilia who has just come out of the shower.

More troubles for DB. Los Mondragon tell Melquíades that they are unhappy that DB hasn't sent them rob cattle or land lately. They say she has turned into a nun (monja). Melquíades tells them to keep their mouths shut. They have no business judging DB. When DB and Melquíades leave, Tigre says that he would like to get revenge on Melquíades but Leon tells him to be careful. That witch doctor has ears everywhere.

Antonio plays with the baby. He says that he wishes he could live with him and his mother but things are complicated. Cecilia (dressed) watches them from the door.

Santos is in bed reading. I can just make out the title of the book, 'Viaje de Amor' (Voyage of Love).

I can't see if it is by Madame Fabulé. It looks like a man's picture on the back cover of book. Marisela brings him his dinner and asks angrily if he wants anything else. Santos says that he wants a kiss and Marisela reminds him that they just fought. Santos says that they shouldn't fight. She sits on his bed but says that she is afraid of hurting him. He says that she cures his soul. She makes him happy. "You are really happy with me?" asks Marisela. "So much so," replies Santos, "that I am not going to stop thanking whoever tried to kill me because finally you are here in my bed where I have wanted you to be." They are just starting to kiss when Genoveva tells them that DB has arrived. She wants to see Santos.

Marisela won't let DB upstairs. Marisela asks if they have come to finish Santos off. DB and Melquíades take off their weapons but Marisela won't budge. Santos comes downstairs and asks what DB wants. She says that she wants to know if he believes her for once in his life.

Cecilia brings some coffee to Antonio. He says that he feels a combination of pride and happiness when he sees the baby. He says that he likes the fact that the baby looks like Cecilia. Cecilia laughs and says the baby is the image (retrato) of Antonio. She says that the baby has Antonio's personality: he is very curious, very alert, very happy, very stubborn. "I would have liked to fill you with babies, Cecilia Vergel," says Antonio. "And I would have loved to have had them with you," replies Cecilia. They kiss.

Carmelito and María Nieves find BP's body.

DB tells Santos that it is very important to know if he believes that she didn't order him to be killed. Carmelito and MN come in and report that they found BP's body with a blowgun dart in it. "What do you have to say now, Bárbara?" asks Santos, "What are trying to do this time? Perhaps the other deaths weren't yours but this death surely is yours and Melquíades Gamarra." DB and Melquíades are impactados.

Labels: barbara

Well, I could be talking about tonight's episode or I could be talking about the Buckeyes basketball game (going on in the background while I type)...we've squandered a 17 point lead and may be extending our losing streak. But I digress...let's get back to our protagonists' losing streaks 'cause they're floundering right along with us.

No rehash again tonight which is a blessing. But we start where we left off, with an unhappy Beto, sulking by the door after his mommy has nixed an outing with Patricio. He's telling her she's a bad mom. She's defending herself, saying she needs to limit the visits to once a week at an agreed upon time. Beto wants to see his dad every day. Soledad murmurs unhappily, "I'm not bad. I'm not bad." But she doesn't look like she believes it. And neither does Beto.

Well, how about our "bad boy"?...Eduardo? His bliss with Chayo was short-lived. All night long he was evidently dreaming about the well-endowed patient and murmuring about big "bubis" in his sleep. Needless to say, breakfast with Chayo was frosty indeed, and I'm not talking cereal ,folks. Santiago keeps reassuring him he has an "out" (salida). He can give him an excuse on a silver platter (charola de plata). Just tell Chayo he was reconsidering her operation and now is ready to give her the go-ahead.

Okay...switch from that lighthearted topic to an icky scene with Marissa. (Let's face it, all scenes with Marissa are icky). Santiago's running a little "testing 1-2-3" gambit with the bambino, thinking ahead to soccer games when he's three years old and Marissa does one of her quick hormonal switches from being happy about the baby attention to being jealous about the baby attention. He loves the baby more than her! (darn tootin' sister) She tries to get Santiago to swear that he'll love HER and the baby forever. He evades the need to swear. This makes her even more anxious. She knows he's still thinking about Candy.

Although Marissa is repugnant in many ways, I still feel sorry for her. Having been in situations where I was determined to "luchar por mi amor" as well, and remembering all the pointless, useless ways I have tried to make unworkable situations "work".....well, I sympathize. But I hope she can fast forward to maturity and make the wise decision to give up this forced wedding.

Meanwhile, our main gal ,still moving with glacial speed toward maturity is our Candy. Barb's quizzing her on the last time she's been with a man and is astounded to learn that her one and only time was when she got pregnant with Chava. And he's how old now?! (Okay, we know because we've had this conversation before. Circling the drain, circling the drain.)

Santiago and Eduardo are in the scrub room having their usual talk about...well, sex...with maybe a touch of romance thrown in and who should be lurking outside the door at a crucial point but Chayo. Eduardo's saying there's no way (ni ocho cuartos) he's letting Chayo have surgery because she's perfect. And not only that, she's loving, faithful and true. Outside the door, Chayo is squealing with delight.

Now when's the last time an overheard conversation in a telenovela has led to good things? Our little couple is clearly operating under a benevolent star today.

The conversation in the therapist's office isn't going as well. Marissa, twisting in the wind, is talking about her ups and downs, her mood swings from love to hate, obsessing over the painful conversation she overheard where Santiago declares his love for Candy to Tio Meño. And even worse was the e-mail from Santiago to Raúl about that selfsame love. Words spoken can be blown away, but words written...there's no getting around them. The therapist warns her about her destructive and conflicted feelings and also notes that it's bad for the baby.

That's it for Marissa. Our time is up, she says, flouncing out. But the therapy isn't finished. I'm discharging myself, snaps our borderline mom-to-be.

Whew. Cute scene is next. I was ready for a break. (And we're up by 8 right now.) Charly's at the door with a big bouquet of roses. He looks absolutely adorable. Lucia looks like a zombie. Completely expressionless. She doesn't want any more "lios de drogos" (drug problems). He promises and we hear the classic litany "perdoname" followed by her "prometemelo, juramelo" and again, his "perdonamelo". He asks for a little kiss. She says no. He turns to go. She says yes. They kiss. Suddenly a loud menacing clap is heard from Donato. Whoops. Now more clapping. He approves. They kiss some more. Lots more. Ah, young love.

Another comic interlude...this time an Iron Chef cookoff between Gregoria and Lulu. They've made a heap of different dishes and are tasting and critiquing each others' creations. There's some bickering back and forth, and some serious menacing but the upshot is....It's a tie. Or so says Zamora. So Gregoria retains her chef's hat and her position in Meño's kitchen. The scene ends with Gregoria receiving a call from....you guessed it, Arturo, Patricio's dad, wanting to meet her later. What gives with that? Time will tell.

Back to the scrub room. Eduardo is showing the sexy secretary what products need to be ordered when Chayo sweeps in, tells her she's got the day off and latches onto Eduardo. She's all over him apologizing for her bad mood that morning, reassuring him she trusts him completely (kiss kiss) and oh my, how handsome you are (kiss kiss, grope grope, sink to floor and the rest is up to your imagination, folks). Must say I liked this scene. And I've got a good imagination. Hope nobody gets a rug burn.

Gregoria's nervously waiting at the restaurant. She's obviously not good at secret rendezvous. In walks, not Arturo, but Arturo's wife. What are you doing here? she gasps.

Fast break to an old conversation. Meño and Candy again. He's saying Santiago loves her and is the man for her. She's saying she's afraid and besides Santiago's going to marry Marissa. The romantic music plays. We've heard it all before and we'll hear it again. Tonight even! The one good moment was when he asked, How can YOU be a counselor? Indeed.

Alright, back to our uncomfortable Gregoria and Arturo's wife (can't remember her name, poor dear). Said lady is blithering on about Botox and how Dr. Carmona-Lopez has finally agreed to do some more work on her. Gregoria's trying to slip away, pleading a shopping trip with Candy when whoops...Arturo walks in...starts to turn away but then is spotted by his wife. Why didn't you tell me you were going to be in Guadalajara? And how did you know I'd be here?" Do you have a crystal ball?

Well, he's got a couple of crystal balls because he actually has the chutzpah to say he's there because he's meeting Gregoria. Wow...que hombre! Of course they switch scenes so we're left to wonder how he's going to salvage this one.

Back at Candy's the doorbell rings. Meño answers. Someone has delivered a package. It 's a CD disc that Candy is to watch ALONE. It's Santiago. He's holding up a series of posters saying Te quiero. Ich liebe sie. (It should have been "Ich liebe dich") Je t'aime. And I love you. Then he wants her to put forth her hand, close her eyes, don't say "nah ah" and voilá, he's there...saying I want to see you. I want to see you the rest of my life.

There's a big hug. But of course this scene is going nowhere. (Circling the drain. Circling the drain.) She can't deal with the guilt. He's going to marry Marissa. So he tries another tack. Does Patricio make you happy? Again, the writers makes us wait for the answer. But here's a clue...circling the drain.

Alright, so how's Arturo handling his little contretemps? Well, he's explaining that he's meeting Gregoria in order to get her to tell Candy to lay off Patirico. She's already ruined his life once. He's not letting it happen again. Wifey doesn't look too convinced...especially since Gregoria is all but writhing and looking guilty as hell...but she finally let's it go, saying....Well, enjoy the company of my charming husband, Gregoria.....and exits. Why didn't you tell her I was just a friend, stammers Gogo, after she leaves. She never would have believe me. I don't have any woman friends. (or any friends for that matter). And I think I'm going to move here, Arturo continues. With your wife? Well....if I can't get rid of her. Gregoria's really getting upset now and Arturo notes tenderly that he loves women who are "culposas". That word's not in my dictionary but I assume it means "guilt-stricken". Well, found it finally in my Larousse and it says "negligent" or "imprudent". Hmmmm.

And now back to the main event: Candy, Santiago and their endless I-Love-You-Forget-Me discussions. This time he goes all literary on her and brings up the Divine Comedy. Hell is defined as being near the loved one eternally without being able to touch her. Proximity without intimacy.

Oh, gosh, that wasn't in the Divine Comedy. Turns out somebody other than Dante said it. Maybe it was a bartender. Well, no matter. It's true. So there.

They reminisce about their first meeting. Candy was the "merchandise" and it was "look, but don't touch". And by golly, the rules are still the same. Forget me, she says. He begs her to say"Doctor Plastico"....it's become a tender term for them. He makes puppy dog eyes. She does too. The romantic music plays. She says, "Adios, Dr. Plastico". And I'm bored blue. Honestly, how many times have we seen this scene? Get on with it already.

For once I'm happy to break for an ad. When we come back, Santiago is trudging out the door and our sad little matchmaker Meño is murmuring, It didn't work out, right? She wants to forget me, sighs Santiago. But please, Meño, come to my wedding. I'd miss you if you weren't there. We see Candy with one tear running down her porcelain don't- touch- me cheek and Meño consoling her and blah blah blah. I want to care but I just can't. I'd much rather watch Chayo and Eduardo rolling around on the scrub room floor. (Did I just say that?)

Okay, toxic dad Patricio is throwing another monkey wrench in a mother's plans. This time he wants to take Chava to the country for a camping/fishing trip. Through clenched teeth Candy tells him he should have checked with her first. Because she doesn't want to let him go. Well, how about we go as a family? suggests Patricio. I'll take him myself says Miss Frosty. Oh...and the flies, the ants, the spiders, the scorpions? grins Pato. Sounds like it's gut check time for our heroine.

Soledad, at the office, gets a call from the lawyer handling her divorce from Jorge. She doesn't want to go alone but Chayo's having lunch with Eduardo (a nooner!), Ceci has a dental appointment, Candy's working on her Institute course... so they send her off to look for Lulu at the restaurant. This leads to a very strange scene with Zamora flirting like mad and finally ending up going with her to the appointment in Lulu's place. Complete in his mariachi/cum waiter costume. Random comedy. Kinda lame. What can I say.

And a brief scene with Patricio and Alicia, ever the energizer bunny wannabe wife, trying to talk business, then trying to talk monkey business...appointment with gynecologist, let's make a baby now etc. and getting the brush off again.

Weird scene with matchmaker Meño waving a transparent bikini bottom in Candy's face when Santiago walks in again. Noooo he hasn't given up. He's back to say that he's miserable without her. Hell, we're all miserable. Work it out kids. Of course she's still not playing. Suggests that if he has the keys to Marissa's apartment that they go there. Bizarre idea. She maintains that it's important to see where their love evolved, all that they lived and to see Marissa's diary which must talk about their first kiss etc. Man, this whole scene just seems wildly inappropriate to me. But on it goes, with Santiago picking up his desecrated photo and pointing out all the "love you's , hate you's scrawled on it. Candy, in another non sequitur, leaves so Santiago "can think about it". There's nothing to think about! he mutters. And I agree.

Back to Pato and his neverending quest. He's brought a tent for Candy. Of course she doesn't know how to put it up. So he pleads to go along, once again. Let's be a family. Let ME be the husband this weekend. Close your eyes (didn't Santiago just say this?). Imagine the night. Full of stars. The moon. You. Me. Our son. A campfire. As a sweet trumpet begins to play romantic music, their lips meet in tender, familiar kisses.

So we leave our eternally frustrated lovers circling their various drains. Alicia's swirling around Pato to no avail. Santiago and Pato are circling Candy and getting nowhere. Arturo's circling Gregoria but we're not sure why. And Chayo and Eduardo? Hey...now there's a happy thought. Let the good times roll.

Previews: Marissa's on the verge. Barbara tries to talk to her and Marissa accuses her of pushing her into the chair and being aggressive. And the talk...as a friend or as a therapist? (Hey, I'm voting for therapy AND medication.)

And we won! Pulled our chestnuts out of the fire. Snapped a three-game losing streak. Maybe there's hope for these folks yet.

Vocabulary:
charola de plata = silver tray
hecha bolas = confused, muddled
puntiaguez (that's what the closed captions said anyway) puntiagudo(a) means sharp or pointed. Santiago used the term when talking to his son in Marissa's swollen belly
culposa, culposo = refers to an act that is imprudent or negligent
ni ocho cuartos = no way
salida = exit, way out

Labels: Tontas