Caray, Caray!

Suppertime at Jacinto’s has Gardenia denying she had anything to do with encouraging a break-up between Err and Eddie. Jacinto and Margie discuss the way some people fall in love in their childhood and keep that burning, churning hunk o’ love inside for a lifetime, the same way she and he did. (Ah, yes: the supposed and far-fetched premise for this telenovela, lest we discerning folk forget.) He refuses to consider that Denia might be that way about Eduardo. Margie defends her sister saying that love is love even if it is unreturned. The more pragmatic Jacinto warns Denia that a one-sided love is a losing proposition, especially with Eduardo who’s set his sights for somebody (actually, anybody) else. Denia is defiantly adamant. “We’ll see about that! For all his education and fine upbringing, he’s still Soledad’s son and humble rural folk like the rest of us.” (Why are these women always so pig-headed when it comes to capturing the heart of an Alpha-male? It’s gotta be the pheromones.)

Across the way at the Elizalde’s, Gonzo now shows Fernanda and Santiago the photo of Lili signifying “proof of life” that Obregon supposedly had e-mailed to Babs. Babs must come alone with the money to the pier and put it in some designated motor boat she finds there. Obregon supposedly swore that that was the only way would he let Lili go free. Fer can’t believe they’re really going to pay attention to this guy. Babs quickly reminds her that they don’t have much time and cannot risk Lili’s life by defying Obregon. Fer gets suspicious and asks why Babs is the one who is supposed to take the money. Gonzo’s sage reply: “--because that’s what the letter says.” (Duh!) Gonzo says not to worry. He’ll do what he promised by discussing it with Franco Santoro before making a decision. Fer seems satisfied. Just then an inebriated Damian hobbles in on his crutches to make an impromptu appearance and sarcastically jibes, "Since when does the Elizalde family not move a finger without Franco Santoro’s permission?" Stares of disgust are shared by all at his slovenly, sozzled, and most unwelcome two-centavos-worth.

At Las Animas, Eduardo finally arrives home where we share a moment or three of self-doubt with him about his continuing this sham of an engagement to Errika. (After leading Errika and her parents on like he just did, there won’t be any tea and sympathy from this little corner of Viewerville.)

Speaking of being led on, Cadmilo is surprised to see the fancy spred Venus, aka Loafly, has laid out for him on the table when he returns from the distressing chat he just had with her “Uncle Estev.” He tells her that he did speak with her “uncle” and thinks he’s “a little weird.” Loafly says not so much. “He’s only a bit strict and demanding.” Cad guffaws. “Ha! A little?” She jumps to her uncle’s defense. “—You must understand, he swore to my dead parents in front of their grave that he would take care of me.” She asks him to tell her what they talked about. Cad snorts. “He said we had to get married!” Venus pretends mild surprise and smiles modestly. Cad scowls.

Back at Las Animas, Estev is laughing at the way he got Cad to commit to his demand that he must marry Venus. He wonders why Eddie isn’t jumping for joy or laughing along with him since now they have Cad right where they want him, under their thumb [tener en el puño]. Ed says sure he’s glad, but he wonders just how far Estev is planning to take this. Estev says he’d rather know just what happened at the Astorga’s and how far Eddie plans to go with this marriage farce of his? Eddie says his marriage is a done deal and he’s getting married because he wants to. Estev doesn’t look at all convinced.

Meanwhile, Santi and Fer drag Dam upstairs and put him back to bed. Dam continues griping at Fer and manages to drop Franco Santoro’s name somewhere in there among the rest of the complaints. They tell him he’s drunk and to calm down. Pris offers to babysit him while they go back downstairs to figure out the details over Lili’s ransom. The two take her up on it and leave. Dam passes out. Pris wakes him back up and says that drunk or not they need to talk.

Back at Cad’s apartment Cad complains to “Loafly” that her uncle’s idea that they have to get married because of what happened is totally ridiculous. She says she agrees, but it seems that if she’s living in his apartment, then something did happen, but he insists that nothing happened between them. She says they didn’t make love, but it seems that he’s telling her that since she wouldn’t go to bed with him that she means nothing to him now. He tells her that’s not it and goes off on some self-righteous spiel about sex not being the most important thing in a relationship. Communication and respect, he says, are what are important. (Viewerville shares a few choice communal guffaws.) “Loafly” whines that the nasty way he’s talking about her uncle shows he does not respect her. He apologizes for that but says the problem is this is the 21st century but her uncle thinks they are living in the Middle Ages!

Venus takes a different tack and puts her hackles up. “Well, I think the same as he does. It’s my reputation and the best thing a woman can do is only give herself to the man she loves. If he should turn out to be you, I wouldn’t think twice about doing it. Do you think that’s old-fashioned?” “—Frankly, yes, darn it!” She lets loose with a bucket of crocodile tears and turns away from him. “—I thought you saw me as a decent woman, but now I see that you don’t!” (This gal deserves an emmy and a lot o’ loot at the end of this gig.) He goes over to comfort her. “Of course not. There, there now.”

At Las Animas Estev tries again to make Eduardo see the error of marrying Errorika when he scarcely knows her and does not love her just because Ed gave his word to her somewhere along the line. Ed justifies by insisting that he’s not thinking of Fernanda or of getting even with her by doing this. Besides, he says, he isn’t losing anything marrying Err since he figures he’s lost everything he ever had anyway. (Damn! Cue the violins and find me a hanky.) Aside from Jacinto, who he considers to be like a brother, he has no family; and since he had to kill off Eduardo Juarez, there’s nothing of himself left but an instinct for survival that’s pushing him. The loneliness he feels is killing him, and he feels he has a right to start a new life that doesn’t rely on the past or on the Elizalde’s to give it meaning. His convoluted thinking tells him that the old Eduardo loved Fernanda Elizalde, but the new Franco scarcely knows her and wants to fall in love with Errika. Estev raises an eyebrow. Hmmm.

Upstairs in Fer’s bedroom, Dam begins shouting for Fernanda again. Pris tells him to shut the heck up and listen to what she is trying to tell him. She tells him she can’t stand it anymore. Dam quiets down and asks her what’s wrong. “--What else? Vladimir Piñeiro!” Dam’s bloodshot, beady eyes get even beadier as he considers how to best take advantage of the situation.

Said pain in the arse, Vladi, is crying on the floor of the nursery he’d put together especially for Pris and their baby. (Some may feel a slight tug at the ol’ heartstrings, but at this point, I think I’m just as exasperated with this loser as Priscilla is. Forget the Beta male. This guy ranks as pure Zeta –make that Omega--material.)

Damian scoffs at Prissy and the way his buddy, Vlad, offered to marry her just to give his kid a name. Pris screams back that she can’t put up with it any longer and says she’s willing to do anything Dam asks just as long as he’ll get Vlad off her back. Dam tells her he wants her to get him proof that Fer and Franco are lovers and then he’ll oblige.

Back at the apartment, “Loafly” gives Cad the cold shoulder when he refuses to commit to marital servitude, those literal, lifetime bonds of matrimony. “What else do I do? I’ve tried to apologize in every way there is.” “--Don’t strain yourself any more. It’s obvious you don’t respect my ‘uncle’ and you respect me even less.” He asks if he should stay or should go and gets no answer. He knows she won’t speak to him and says she at least should listen to what he has to say. There’s no reply. He gets frustrated that it seems it doesn’t matter now. “What do you want from me?” is Loafly’s demure response. Cad explodes and says he’s the only one there who’s risking something in this! (Yeah. A bon vivant lifestyle of all the wine, women and song his daddy can afford.) Cad says he wants her to tell him just what’s in it for him, give him something that would show him that she might really be interested in him, too. Venus demonstrates with what she does best: a tease and a strip. Cad’s squinty little eyes turn softball size as Viewerville wonders if she’ll forget the prime directive: no sleeping with the enemy.

At the hacienda de los Elizalde meanwhile, the family waits on pins and needles for Franco to come see the photo of Lili and the e-mail and to discuss what the next step should be. Babs suggests that Fer should go up to take care of Dam, but Pris comes down and tells them all he’s asleep, so Fer can stay to see what Santoro suggests. Pris looks for a tell from Fer but doesn’t get one.

In his office, Eduardo tells Estev how badly complicated things have gotten with the Elizalde’s. It seems that Obregon had in mind to kidnap Lili ever since he left the clinic. “All we seemed to do was to make it easy for him!” Ed figures his only choice is to now go through with his promise to pay the ransom. Estev wonders how Gonzo got the photo and Ed explains that it was sent to La Hiena’s e-mail. Alarm bells go off in Estev’s head and he asks if possibly Barbara Greco could be behind this kidnapping. Eddie thinks that it very well could be but has no proof. The two agree that this could be a great opportunity to set a trap for her as Uni breaks for a little mercantile machination…..

When we return, Artemio Bravo watches Lili sleeping in a darkened bedroom and says to himself that having her under his control will be useful in torturing her father because never in his rotten life will Gonzo see her again.

Back at Cad’s, the poor guy is struggling to keep it together as Venus works her working-girl wiles on him. All of a sudden she pulls back and puts her clothes back on. Cad is wondering why she stopped such a major work in progress. “You wanted a sample and I gave it to you. Now you know I’m not some little idiotic girl who lets her uncle manipulate her life.” She pushes him angrily back onto the couch. “--because he can be as puritanical, straight-laced, and sanctimonious as he cares to be, but for your information, what you just saw he taught me!” Cad is suddenly QTH-stone-cold-sober-impactado. (All of Viewerville waits in anticipation for the convoluted explanation that’s sure to come –and is not disappointed.) “What?? You mean to say he taught you that???!!! My God!!”

Venus purrs and pours a little bubbly for Cad while she lets him get his swollen head around the whopper she just hit him with. “Haven’t you ever heard of sensuality and eroticism schools?” “—Do those exist?” (Does anybody need more proof than this that this exemplary equine anal orifice is anything but the brightest bulb in the box?) “—My ‘uncle’ enrolled me in one of the best in the world where they train the future wives of sheiks and aristocratic orientals.” (Hubby is rolling on the floor at this point with guffaws so loud I can hardly hear. Honestly, I can’t help myself either. We both have tears running down our cheeks.) Cad struggles with the schizoid irreality: is this a nightmare or an insane wet-dream gone wrong—or maybe very, very right? “He trained you?” “—Yes, he trained me so that I would become a woman capable of bringing out the real man in anyone who married me.” Cad is salivating as he listens. “That’s the career I studied.” “—With books and workbook exercises, and all the rest???” “—Of course, with professors, books and computers just like any other university.” He gets off the couch and admits his surprise.

Venus provocatively prods a little more. “So what do you think? How do you feel about me graduating in sensuality and eroticism?” (I guess his kiss is his answer that it’s fine by him.) He seems a bit shell-shocked. She lays it out for him. “Just so I know where I stand [atenerse] with you, now that you know what you can expect from me, what can I expect from you?” He stands there contemplating her navel.

Meanwhile, Damian continues playing head games with Prissy. He takes his cup of coffee from her and grouses that if Fernanda’s infidelity weren’t enough, now Santoro is coming over and involving himself with their “happy family.” Pris tells him he’s making a serious accusation and from what she saw downstairs Fernanda wasn’t doing anything out of the normal. He screams impatiently. “What? You still don’t believe me?” Pris says this isn’t the first time he’s told her there’s something between Fer and Franco. It all just seems so impossible! Dam says he knows she loves Fer, but it is not something he made up or suspects. He saw them at the country house. He conveniently stretches the truth with a line that they were smooching like little lovebirds [tortolitos retozan]. Pris asks if he’s complained to Fer about it. Dam lies again and says no, not that he’d expect her to admit it anyway. Pris says frankly, she cannot bring herself to believe it. He whines that it’s her reluctance that is the reason he hasn’t bothered to tell the family either. They’d feel just the same way about it. “--What I need is proof! --And you’re going to get it for me whatever it takes!!”

Pris is beside herself. Fernanda is like a sister to her and the last thing she wants to do is to betray her trust and loyalty or to dirty her reputation like that. “--Stop being foolish!! She’s deceiving all of us.” Pris says well even if that were so, it’s a problem between the two of them and she’s got no business interfering between a couple like that. “—Not even in exchange for erasing Vladimir from your life? I can do that for you. You become my ally and I will also make sure that Anibal never knows the child your expecting isn’t his.” He smiles evilly and tells her she has no other alternative.

At the same time, Venus tells Cad he has twelve hours to give her an answer as to whether he’ll marry her or not and then shows him the door. He leaves dejected, minus the good-night kiss from his Loafly. Venus races to the phone afterwards and invites Martina out to dinner with her to give her the lo-down on what just happened with Cad.

Fr/Eduardo arrives at the Elizalde’s and says hello to everyone. Pris puts her eagle-eyes on Fer and Franco when he greets her. She watches as Fer politely smiles and tells him how grateful they all are that he’s come. Cad shows up just as the family gets ready to discuss the photo and ransom with Fr/Ed. He pulls Anyballs aside for a little tete a tete in the library.

In the taxi on the way to the restaurant, Martina tells Venus she’s actually lost her appetite since Lili vanished like that on her watch. Venus tells her that Lili won’t show up any sooner just because she stops eating. Martina says she’d like to have Obregon’s neck in her hands so she could squeeze his brains out [exprimir sus sesos]. Venus offers a few other choice wrestling options to consider also when they find him. (Lovely.)

In the library, Anyballs asks Cad what fool thing he’s done now. Cad explains how he went to see Santoro’s boss and says that things went so badly the only way out he has is to get married.

Back in the living room, meanwhile, Fr/Ed assures the family that he’ll do what he promised and will handle getting the ransom money for them. They’ll have it ready early the next morning. Gonzo thanks him for taking on the responsibility as if he were another member of the family. Babs gives Fr/Ed a disguised Evil Eye; Fer looks on with relief and Pris looks at Fer for some clue that she’s hot for Franco.

Meanwhile, over tacos and frijoles, Venus tells Martina that Estev gave her the go-ahead to give Cad that cock n bull story about a sensuality and eroticism school to whet the guy’s whistle and then to give him the 12-hr. ultimatum. Seemed to work she thinks. Martina wonders what his answer will be. “--He’ll either grin and bear it [apechugar] and marry me, or he’ll have to hit the road.”

Cad apparently wants to hightail it for parts unknown. Anibal can’t believe his brother would do something so imbecilic and leave the family in a financial bind like that, especially now that Santoro’s company is footing the ransom. (What did you expect, AB? This guy was born missing the responsibility gene.) AB tells his brother he’s essentially stuck in quicksand up to his eyeballs and sinking fast. Cad doesn’t want a scolding; he just wants a solution from his big bro who always has always pulled his chestnuts out of the fire. Unfortunately for Cad, he took the cheese and got his rat tail caught in the trap. The only answer Anyballs has is that, for the good of the family, Cadmilo has to get married. SNAP-CLINK! Our dear Cad, it seems, has finally been hoist by his own petard. Cara de ¡horror! for Camilo.

Gonzo tells Franco that he doesn’t want to risk Babs’ life by sending her with the ransom alone. He’d rather bring the police in on this. Fr/Ed says they cannot risk Obregon getting upset and running off again with Lili. Gonzo is slavishly indebted to his wife and Franco at this point. Fer swallows and bites her tongue as Babs swears to her lapdog of a husband that Lili’s life is more important, and that she’s willing to risk herself to get Lili back. “You don’t need to thank me, Vida. I’d make any sacrifice for our little girl.” Fer (along with the rest of Viewerville) can hardly control a spontaneous impulse to gag. Babs says the thanks goes to Franco for his financial support. Fr/Ed begs off and gallantly says it’s only money and nothing’s more valuable than Lili’s life. Therefore, the total amount of the ransom will be there for them first thing in the morning.

Anyballs rushes back into the living room with Camilo in tow at that point and makes a big show praising both Franco and Estev Norton’s show of solidarity in their moment of need. “One can never thank you enough, both you and Mr. Norton, for sticking by us. Er… uh…that’s precisely what my brother and I were talking about. Isn’t that right, Camilo?” Cad finds his tongue and joins in. “Yes, yes! That’s exactly right. Thank you very much!” Fr/Ed throws a frown of consternation in their direction.

Labels: manana

Permalink posted by Jardinera654 @ 2:25 PM 68 comments

We begin with Aldo telling Gertrudis, the social worker, that Mauricio has brought love to the three kids, and they’ve become a united family, without fear. Little Danny runs to Mauricio, and he picks her up and hugs her.

At the site of Constanza’s new boutique, with construction halted due to Connie’s insulting the workers yesterday, Ximena holds a paint can to Connie’s nose, asking her to smell it. What do you think it is, acetone? Connie sniffs a few times, seems more like ether to her. Xime sniffs, not ether, either. Connie sniffs, maybe paint thinnner? Yeah, well I don’t think I can remove my nail polish (despintar mis uñitas) with thinner. They start giggling. The girls are high! Connie’s getting a headache, but Xime’s floating even more than usual.

In the vecindad, Arnoldo, the top private investigator, having cleverly disguised his high-brow snobbery with a brand new Chivas jersey, is pretending to do his wash in the outdoor communal sink. Nieves says bye to her boys, don’t bet too much, and goes back inside, since she has a little gas. To the accompaniment of jazzy bass and high hat, Arnoldo sneaks into Beto’s apartment, not noticing Hilario coming in after him, holding an iron. Bam! Hilario knocks him out cold. Beto wonders, Dad, why did you hit him so hard? Simple, the Chivas jersey. Beto likes the Chivas, is any other team better? Of course, the Pumas, replies Hilario, and I understand why you’re deluded, son, as I was not able to raise you to root for the correct team, the Pumas. Beto’s expression shows he’s not completely convinced about this.

Our stoned girls are having different reactions to the paint thinner they sniffed. Connie’s holding her head, but Xime’s hallucinating, looks at all those wires coming out of the wall, I see colors, it’s like a rainbow, far out, man! She’s inspired, as an artist, to “combine” the colors (by touching wires together!) Green with red….Connie runs over, don’t touch it, but too late, there’s a big spark, and both ladies are fine, but covered with soot.

Arnoldo’s flat on his back, as Beto wonders who he is. Lario thinks he must be one of Don Carmelo’s men. Who’s that? Lario pulls Beto over, puts him on his knee (!) and tells him he’s old enough now, I’m going to tell you a story. Don Carmelo is a bad mafioso guy. But Lario’s not a gangster, although he has been their accountant for years. Beto figures out that Lario has money that doesn’t belong to him, and Lario admits this, and that he doesn’t want Carmelo to find him. But he didn’t return just to hide, he really loves Nieves and Beto. They hug, and it’s time to move Arnoldo somewhere so Nieves won’t find out. Beto wonders if they cut up the body, can he have the shirt? Hilario gives him a look. Beto peeks his head outside, the coast is clear. But just as they get the fat Arnoldo outside, they hear Estrella’s voice, so they deposit the unconscious Arn on the ground in a sitting position, and they sneak back inside. Estella tries to wake him up, and just then, Moni arrives, too, having been called at work about this suspicious character. After fanning him with their hands doesn’t rouse him, Moni grabs the back of his hair, pulls his head up, only to discover it’s the guy she met in the office earlier today!

Gertrudis can now see that Mauricio’s a good Dad, and she promises to give the judge a positive report. She’s not really bad, she just had to do her job. Mau understands, and after Gertrudis leaves, Mau tells the three kids how moved he was by their words of love, and the little family hugs. Then his phone rings. Problems at Connie’s worksite.

“Who sent ya?” demands Moni to the now awake Arnoldo, her fists cocked. You’ll never find out, I’m a professional, counters Arn, smugly smirking. Two seconds later, Moni’s choking him, and the baby spits it out, Mauricio
Sermeño. Ahah! Moni’s off to confront Mau, and when Arnoldo whines about his reputation, good-hearted Estrella helps him up, she’ll get him some ice for his head and some ointment (pomada).

Seeing the bum dragged into Estrella’s place, Beto figures he’ll be there a while, hinting at Estrella’s “profession”, so father and son can now go to the track (hipódromo) and bet on the ponies. You like it all, don’t you, son? Yeah, everything, Dad, (saying “todo Padre”, which also means everything’s cool, this is a double entendre) except work, of course. Hilario bonds with his little one (retoño), and they’re off.

Mau arrives at work (I think Connie’s boutique is in his building, maybe even on the same floor as his office), only to see the two ladies, covered in soot from Xime’s experiment. Mau suggests they go to the hospital, but Connie doesn’t want to go, and criticizes Mau for always thinking of the brats first. You have your business, your brats, and your Monita! Oh, don’t start, says Mau, buzzing Gabriella, telling her to hire an architect and some workmen for Connie’s project. Connie is grateful, and assures him she and Ximena are fine, they just have to wash their faces. Yeah, but let’s take a photo first! pipes in Ximmy.

Nieves enters her apartment to be greeted by the sight of three guys in black suits. A fourth guards the door, hand in belt, suggesting he’s packin’ heat. Who are you? I’m Don Carmelo Malacara (means “badface!”), says the boss, a well-dressed but menacing type, trimmed beard, hair slicked back in a little ponytail, where’s Hilario? Nieves claims not to know any Hilario, tries to leave, forgot her toilet paper, but she’s blocked by a big bruiser. Carmelo tells her he knows that Hilario is Nieves’ amante, and her eyes get big.

Moni bursts into Mau’s office with a chip on her lovely shoulder. He tells her it’s not a revolving door (puerta giratoria), but she’s not laughing. What’s the idea of having that guy come to my neighborhood to investigate me, are you going to deny it? Mau admits it, but he had no other option. Well, says Moni, you know what I’m going to do? Quit again? replies Mau. Darn tootin’, and I’ll have you know I’ve found a better job this time. Right on cue, Connie enters, what’s all this yelling? Mau tells her Moni claims to have found a better job, ha ha. So, tell me Monita, who are going to work with? With her (pointing to Connie). Yes, Mauricio, I’m going to work with your novia, take that! Mau is muy impactado, Connie is, too, although she did ask Moni to work for her in a moment of sweakness (my combination of sweetness and weakness).

The thugs are ransacking Nieves’ apartment, where’s the money? Nieves doesn’t know, but Carmelo says she’d better tell, or else. Or else what? He pulls out a big silver gun, points it right between her eyes, I guess that answers her question.

Is it true, Connie, did you really offer Moni a job? Well, umm, ah, well, the thing is, you see, well. Moni says tell him, I’m not making it up. Well, yes, I sort of did put the idea out for her consideration, but, umm…Fine, says Mau, she works for you now, I give her to you. Moni protests, I’m not a present, I’m going because I have my dignity. And I’m going because I have to change out of this dirty dress, adds Connie. See you later, handsome! She leaves, and Mau buzzes Gabi, prepare the severance check for Valentina Lopez. Moni buzzes too, and for all the extra hours I’ve worked, too! What extra hours? Well, Mauricio, should I tell your girlfriend about all the hours I worked coming to your house, going out to dinner with you, etc.? She walks out, giving him a defiant look. He shoots back his own defiant look, but after she leaves, he deflates a bit.

Hilario and Beto are back from the track, he did well in his betting, must have inherited his skill from Dad. They hear Nieves yelling, don’t kill me, Carmelo! Hilario immediately runs away, but Beto tells him to wait, what about Mom? Before he can do anything, a thug with a shaved head points a gun at his back, and it’s hands up. He’s pushed into the room with the others, causing Carmelo to gag, yelling, “put your arms down or change your deodorant!” Beto does, and Carmelo says tell me where Hilario is, or die! Beto says ease off, ease off (aflojar), then says I eased myself off (I think he peed in his pants).

Moni is furious about the detective, telling Paula how she’s leaving. Pau says it’s partially her fault for not telling Mau the truth. The phone rings, Moni barks into it, get your own capuchino! Pau says what’s wrong with you, you’re acting crazy.

Over in Jerry’s office, Xime’s saying the same thing to Connie. How can you rob an employee of Mau, especially Monita. Jerry thinks it’s the best idea he’s heard in a long time. So does Monstranza, she gets Moni away from Mau. Xime thinks it’s terrible, what am I going to say now? Your usual nonsense (sandeces), replies Jerry. Xime thinks Connie should pay Moni double. No way, says Con, you think I’m going to pay her one extra cent? Yes. Please Ximensa (remember, a mensa is a fool), as soon as Mauricio forgets about her, I’ll throw her out in the street! (ah yes, the worst fate in a telenovela).

Mauricio is mad at Gabi and Salvador for letting him hire the detective. They have to protect him from his rash impulses. But you ordered it, what should we do, tie you to a chair? Yes, you should. Gabi doesn’t think Moni will last a half hour with Connie, but Mau knows how stubborn she is, she’ll never forgive him. There’s a knock, and it’s Moni. Gabi and Sal leave, and Mau’s ready for another reaming, but Moni gently places her cellphone on his desk, and surprises Mau by saying that she’s grateful to him. He gave her a job, he trusted her. He softens, wishes her the best of luck, from the bottom of his heart. She wishes him the same. They sadly part, para siempre, and our novela ends.

Wait a minute, it was just a commercial break. Sorry about that. Back in the barrio, Carmelo is screaming, Dónde está mi dinero! Where is my money, you better start singing now, or else! Sing, Beto, sing, pleads his Mom. So he does, a silly made up song about money, causing the thugs to applaud for a second, until Carmelo clocks Beto with the gun to the back of the head. Nieves starts to protest until Carmelo points the gun at her mouth, now YOU sing!

Mauricio is walking in the hall when a phone rings in his pocket. Without thinking, he opens Moni’s phone, and Estrella, thinking it’s Moni, says we have big problems here. Mau identifies himself, what’s the problem. Estrella immediately clams up, everything’s fine, time to hang up, mister prince, but Mau asks her to wait, he wants to have coffee with her. Oh, you, too, can’t you guys learn that I never go out with my amigas’ boyfriends, well ALMOST never? No, says Mau, I just want to talk about Monita. Okay, fine, says Estrella, and they’ll meet at some restaurant at 9:00.

Moni arrives, and Estrella fills her in about the mafiosos in Nieves’ house. But where’s Beto? At this point, Beto is marched out at gunpoint, and Carmelo tells him that if by tomorrow he doesn’t produce Hilario and the money, he and his Mom will pay. The thugs leave, and Moni sees that Beto was hit on the head (I guess he didn’t lose his memory this time).

Back in the coffee room of the office, Paula is letting Ricardo have a piece of her mind – he stood her up again. He lies, said he couldn’t make it because of his chauffeur job. She grabs a little plastic knife, presses it to his throat, and says if he’s unfaithful, there’s no telling what she could do. Did he see the show Mujeres Asesinas (women killers)? He assures him she’s his one and only, asks her to give him a kiss, but she responds give you a kiss, my foot! (que darte besito ni qué ocho cuartos). She throws him out of the room.

Apparently Nieves took a pill to relax her from the trauma, and is sleeping. Beto went out with his buds as if nothing is wrong, so Estrella and Moni are talking. Estrella remembers that when she called Moni’s cell, Mau answered, and they’re going to have coffee. At first, Moni’s upset, but she decides she doesn’t care, Estrella can do whatever she wants, since she’s done with Mauricio (but I think Estrella is gonna to gather info, and maybe help get them back together).

Cut to the restaurant, a quiet little place with brick arches, Mau thanks Estrella for coming, holds her chair like a gentleman, which impresses her. She tells him she knows the whole story, and when he says it wasn’t his fault, she disagrees, saying you were hassling (atosigando) her by sending that detective. You really shouldn’t meddle in the private life of her and ……and her novio? asks Mau. Right, her novio. And the novio’s been going through a lot, what with (at this point she almost mentions the real problems, but changes horses in midstream), “the plans for the wedding”! Yes, they’re going to get married. At the end of this month. Mauricio is again shocked and dismayed, and guess what else? JERRY just happens to be in this same restaurant. He doesn’t hear the conversation, but he sure does see who Mauricio’s with, and like the Good Samaritan he is, calls Connie to tell her, guess who Mauricio is dining with, can you guess?

Meanwhile, Moni’s sleeping, and Hilario creeps in (remember, his money is under her bed). He kneels down next to the bed, and in her dream state, Moni reaches out, strokes his hair, dreamily calls out “Mauricio”? Yes, I’m Mauricio, but let go of me. She wakes up, sees Hilario, and screams!

After the commercial, I guess Hilario has told the truth, as he snaps shut the little money-filled suitcase, tells Nieves, Moni and Beto he’s going to give the money back to Carmelo and crew. Nieves is worried about him, he could get hurt, but he says there’s no choice, he has to protect his family. Besides, no one could hit him harder than La Monita. Beto wants them all to take the money and flee to Las Vegas, but Hilario says Carmelo could find them anywhere in the world, so that’s out. And by the way, son, if I had shown up without a penny, would you still have greeted me so warmly? Of course, Dad, how could you even ask (hah!) They hug. Hilario also hugs Moni, whispering in her ear that one day she’ll have to tell him about that Mauricio. The last hug is for Nieves, he wants her to remember that wherever he may be (esté donde esté), he’ll always be with her. Adiós, mi familia!

Connie has shown up at Mauricio’s house, and is calling out his name in the pitch darkness. Teresa turns on the light, and Connie won’t shut up until Mau comes out. Fortunately, he’s back, and after Teresa leaves, Connie tells him to stop cuckolding him, now he was with that loose woman Estrella. He admits he was in the restaurant with her, but they were just talking about Ricardo, his chauffeur, who’s Estrella’s boyfriend. Oh, so now you’re sharing your women with your chauffeur? is Monstranza’s curt reply. What’s with you, coming into my house, the kids are sleeping, have you gone crazy? Connie apologizes, she’s just confused. Well, let’s go have a cup of tea in the kitchen and calm down. Guess who witnessed this little spat – Aldo, who is probably jealous, upon hearing that Estrella is going out with Ricardo.

Time for more violence, yay! Moni (in pink robe) is choking Estrella (second person she’s choked this episode), what were you thinking telling him I’m getting married! Estrella says it’s a good way to get rid of that guy, but Moni starts to cry. She tearfully asks who might Mau think Moni’s marrying. Well, I guess, Don Cesar (it’s hard for them to keep track of the various lies, I think they need a checklist to keep it all straight). Moni begs her to stop helping so much, it’s not helping. Moni thinks Mau will kill Cesar, but Estrella thinks not, Mau is too “cultured” for that. At this point, Paula enters, also in pajamas, can’t sleep. What’s wrong, Paula? Well, she says, Ricardo stood me up, I think there’s someone else. Moni and Estrella try not to look guilty. Paula adds, if so, I’m going to cut up Ricardo into little pieces like a chicken, and as for the lowlife girl (la pelafustana) , I’m going to slit her throat (degollar). Moni stays quiet, as Estrella (behind Paula) gulps, her hand reflexively moving in front of her neck. Uuyyy!

It’s finally morning. Ivan is studying outside, as Aldo demands to know where Ricardo is. Why? Because he’s simultaneously going out with Paula and Estrella. Getting jealous? inquires Ivan. Oh be quiet, and not only that, Mauricio is going out with Estrella, too, I heard Constanza say it, although Mauricio denied it. Ivan doesn’t believe Connie for a minute, but Aldo says he has a way to find out for sure. He goes back inside.

Outside the gym, Mauricio and Salvador have pulled up in a car. Salvador says he has enough problems, with his wife in jail, but Mau is still blaming Sal for the incompetent detective, so it’s Sal’s job to go in the gym and locate Don Cesar, see if he’s going to marry La Monita.

Well, Connie’s lingerie boutique is ready to open, as we see a mannequin wearing a lacy red bra and panties. Connie and Ximena are checking out some of the other bras, excited about the shop. Connie asks about security, and Xime says they’re arriving at noon. Xime’s trying on a bra over her clothes, Connie’s playing with a thong, as Moni arrives for her new chamba. She’s wearing another short red ruffled skirt, a tight blue and white top, rather lowcut, and a wide red belt. Where do I start, behind the counter? No, start with the bathroom, so you don’t disgust the clients. Moni’s mad, she purposely dressed up to wait on clients, but she doesn’t quit (yet), and goes off to clean the bathroom. Xime doesn’t approve, but stays quiet, just makes an “x” sign.

Okay, who knows what happened with Sal and Don Cesar, as our amateur sleuths Mauricio and Salvador, being driven by Ricardo, pull up to a woman sweeping, and Mau gets out of the car. Okay, this must be where Don Cesar lives, Mau asks where Cesar is, the lady says he went to the store, but he’ll be back soon. Mau introduces himself, and the lady says she’s Dorita, Cesar’s wife. Cesar walks up in his red suit with orange open-necked shirt. Dorita tells him to take off the sunglasses, we’re not at the beach. We can see they’re a typical married couple. She leaves the men to talk. Cesar wonders what happened to the boxing lessons. Mau changes the subject. How could you propose marriage to Monita, you coward?

Moni comes out of the bathroom with a smelly rag, stating that if they want her to clean the bathroom, she needs money to buy a mop, or should she bring one from home? No problem, says Connie, here’s some money, just remember to bring back the change. Moni goes off, tossing the rag in the air, and it just happens to land on Connie’s head! Ximena laughs as Connie freaks, but then there’s a whistle, and security is here! Xime hired Costeño (looking very natty in a loose long-sleeved black shirt with lots of silver studs, open necked, his dredlocks flowing), who kisses her hand gallantly, and Beto(!), also looking neat and clean, who saunters over to Connie, saying I told you I’d be back. The heat in the room is rising.

Connie pulls Xime aside, as the two galans beam in the background. Xime’s proud of herself, who better for security than professional fighters? Connie thinks the paint thinner short circuited Xime’s two brain cells. Oh come now girlfriend, replies Xime, you don’t have to pretend for me. I know you dig your Robi. If there’s anything I feel for Roberto, it’s disgust. Xime tells Connie to look at herself in the mirror, we have plenty of them here in the shop, and we can see that Connie (wearing one of her grecian gown type dresses) is indeed heating up, her body language giving away everything. Xime and Costeño go off in search of daiquiris, leaving Beto and Connie alone. Beto comes up behind Connie, did you miss me? She denies it, but he says she’s trembling (vibras), she can’t deny she feels something.

Mauricio is confronting Cesar. Cesar doesn’t deny things fast enough, just wants to correct the error, asks Mau to keep it down, the neighbors could hear, so “cultured” Mau (see above) punches him in the face. Cesar tells Mau to look over there, dumb Mau does, and Cesar sucker punches him in the gut. At this point Ricardo and Sal rush out to separate our macho men.

Back in the boutique, Beto is using his teeth to untie a red bow from a mannequin’s behind, he loves this lingerie. Connie playfully slaps him, reminds him that these creations are from the finest fashion houses, and she herself has designed some of the items. She adds that they shouldn’t mix things (work and their possible attraction), but he wants to work VERY CLOSELY with her, and he softly strokes her arm. But Roberto, I’m scared, she says breathlessly. He’ll get rid of her fear. But she recovers, reminds him that in this boutique, lots of people know her. Don’t worry, he assures her, one hand on her hip, the other on her shoulder, we’ll keep it secret. She shyly turns, his face now in her hair, his lips near her ears, but I have a novio, I’ve told you a thousand times. I have one, too, it’s no big deal he says, but this surprises her, and she pulls away. Are you jealous? Of course not, she says, and he pulls her close, brushes against her hair, I love the smell of your hair, your shampoo (he uses the word pelo for hair). I call it cabello (a fancier word for hair) and I wash it every day. He’s kissing her neck, he’s going crazy, she’s enjoying it, but she suddenly knows it’s going too far, you’ve got to leave, go get the other security guy. Okay, but only if you agree to go out with me, alone. She says no, she says yes. He slowly leaves, saying he’ll call her, pausing on the way out next to a mannequin, seductively sliding the mannequin’s bra strap down and off, leaving Connie in full arousal, biting her lip, stroking her throat, eyes closed. Whew!

Monday: Gabi’s in a similar state when Lorenza walks in, Mau asks Moni for forgiveness, Cesar tells Moni her lies are causing a lot of problems. What lies?, asks Beto.

Vocabulario:

Despintar mis uñitas – unpaint my nails (remove nail polish)
Hipódromo – racetrack for horses, last week we had autódromo for cars
Retoño – little one, kid
Puerta giratoria – revolving door
Aflojar – to ease off, or release tension
Que darte besito ni qué ocho cuartos – Give you a kiss, my foot! Cuartos are some ancient kind of coin. Ni qué ocho cuartos means no way, or my foot
Atosigando – hassling or pestering someone
Esté donde esté – wherever I am, be where I should be
Degollar – to slit someone’s throat, decapitate, massacre
Vibrar – to quiver with emotion

Labels: gancho

Due to personal problem, I will not be able to continue recapping En Nombre del Amor on Thursdays. It's a real shame, 'cause I am enjoying the show.

Is anyone available out there to take over the slot? Thanks, all.

Labels: amor, recappers-needed

Steve gives Cam a whiskey and water. Steve interrogates Cam – so you propose to help Lovely. Yes, says Cam, that’s why I came to talk to you.

Franco is at Erika’s and Dolly tells Franco how close and inseparable Fer and Erika have been their entire lives. They were like sisters. When Fernanda went to Madrid to study, they had to send Erika, too. Agostin asks Franco if he has brothers. Franco tells him the story about how his parents died and that he went to the U.S. to study. He had no reason to return until now. Don Agostin gets to the heart of the matter. Erika has told him Franco has come to discuss something very important with them tonight.

Damian asks Fer why she is looking at him as if she doesn’t know him. He wants to make love and tells her that the champagne is for their wedding night. Fer looks unhappy. Damian looks like he’s getting drunk. He is not disposed to stop drinking. He asks her if she’s afraid. She says no, and he reaches for her glass and then reaches his hand out for her. She looks like a cockroach is about ready to crawl up her leg. He (ugh) begins to remove her clothing and caress and kiss her. The feeling is not mutual. Damian realizes that he is making love to a mannequin and gets the ugly look on his face.

Steve and Cam continue their Lovely conversation. Cam is really trying to be cooperative while Steve nails his hide to the wall. Steve wants to know why Cam is so sure that Lovely is OK – like do you know where she is? Meanwhile, Lovely, the bar girl, is talking to Martina. Lovely wants Martina to tell Steve she is returning for clothing. Martina tells Lovely that dog Obregon kidnapped Lili.

Damian asks Fer for just one little kiss. She begs him not to drink. He lunges at her and she pushes him away and his injured leg is injured again. He tells her she is his wife under the law for better or worse and that they’ll never separate. He mocks her and she gets to see what he’s really like. In true drama queen form, he plays to her sympathies with little tears forming in the corners of his eyes. Enough, Damian, she says. He wants her to get more comfortable. She shakes in her shoes and goes to the bathroom and sobs.

Damian yells to Fer to get pretty for him. I hope there is a window in the bathroom so that she has an alternate escape route.

Erika’s mom tells Franco that Don Agostin always knew that Erika would marry well. Agostin asks Franco about himself and Franco says he has an MBA and is an executive with Power Milk.

Martina and Venus/Lovely talk about Lili and Martina says she is mortified for not doing her job for the good don Franco. Venus/Lovely gushes over about how good Franco and Steve are. Martina wants the chisme (gossip) about Camilo. Venus says she’s worried and that she is obligated to finish the job. She’s one of Steve’s students, and the trap they set will obligate Camilo to marry her.

Steve yells at Cam. Steve wants to know Cam’s intentions regarding his niece. How dare Cam invite Lovely to a bar without his permission. Steve says that a true gentleman would be disposed to marry the woman. Camilo is in shock. Steve threatens to break the Power Milk deal unless Cam marries Lovely. Cam looks like he’s just barely survived round one of the Spanish Inquisition.

A drunken Damian is spilling champagne and he says for better or worse this is going to be our wedding night. Fer is still crying at herself in the bathroom mirror.

Franco says that he had a relationship with a woman, but she wasn’t his novia. It was platonic. Don Agostin wants to know what happened to her. Franco says she married a while ago and that she is happy. Could this be any more perfect for Erika?

Damian is banging at the bathroom door and demands that Fer open the door. She let him in. He hobbles in on crutches and notes that she hasn’t changed her clothes. He blocks her way to the door and wants to know what excuse she’s going to come up with now. I’d say pull the crutches out from under him. In the bedroom he starts to trip by himself and she helps him to the bed and picks up the crutches. He asks if she has a headache. She says she’s not going to make up any excuse and kneels in front of him. She wants to ask him a favor. She wants to know Barbara Greco’s secret bank account number. That question makes Damian stop in his tracks.

Bar reflects on the day she gave birth and that she passed out. She also reflects on her recent conversation with Artemio Bravo. She says girl, he says boy. She says something within me tells me that Aurora is my daughter.

Aurora is praying to the Virgin that she wanted to tell Mother Superior everything but she couldn’t and that she is a coward for not telling Santiago about the tragedy she lived. She thinks her silence will avoid bloodshed between two brothers.

Santiago is trying to reach Bar by phone and begs her to call him. She’s in the car crying. She tells herself that she has to hold her tears and swears that if her premonition about Aurora is true Artemio Bravo will be sorry.

Artemio is trying to talk to a catatonic Lili. He wants her to eat. She calls him “papa.”

Damian tells Fer that in order to find Barbara’s account number he would have to go to Lactos in New York, and that will take time. She says, “OK”.

Lili gets up and talks to Artemio as if he is her father. He says I’m not your father and tries to stop her from touching him. She smiles and touches him anyway and kisses him on the cheek even though he denies being her father. OK – I think he is clearly moved by her innocence.

Steve wants to know if Cam and Lovely can get married tomorrow. Cam says not enough time. Steve says not so – he has to own up to his bad behavior. Cam says he has to ask Lovely. What if she says no. Steve says she’ll agree. He is sure because he knows Lovely will do as he wishes and that Cam will do the same or the Elizaldes will not get a cent of Power Milk money and will have to return the $10 million that has already been transferred to them.

Lovely/Venus continues telling Martina about her “affair” with Cam. Martina is so glad Lovely/Venus is there. Lovely/Venus tells Martina not to worry because Lili will return soon.

Cam says he will talk to Lovely. Steve insists right now. Steve has been shamed by Cam’s behavior and states that Camilo must comply with his duty. As Cam leaves, Steve nearly falls over with laughter.

Damian says let’s play a game. He removes his jacket. Does he mean a game like strip poker? Then he removes his tie and then his shirt and tells Fernanda to follow. Like take off your clothes, girl. How romantic can you get. It is now time for her to run for the door. Thank God, Santiago knocks on the door and calls out for her.

Don Agostin welcomes Franco to the family with a toast all around. Dolly wants to know when they plan to marry. He says, let’s see. Erika will decide. Dolly hands Erika a calendar and asks Franco if the last Saturday of the month is OK. He agrees. Don Agostin says that’s a little too soon. Erika giggles and says, Daddy, we want to marry as soon as possible. Franco agrees and Don Agostin says OK because he can’t deny his little star anything. Erika wants Fer to be the madrina. No problem, he says. And, Steve for the padrino. That’s fine too. Erika starts making calls.

Fer tells Damian that she has to find out what Santiago wants. If her brother is looking for her, it must be important. Damian warns her for the last time that if she goes now, she goes forever. That must mean that he is going to quit loafing around the Elizalde hacienda and that he will go mooch off his mama.

Santiago tells Fer that Bar has her phone off and that he knows who carried Aurora away.

Damian goes through Fer’s purse. Fer’s phone rings. It is Erika, and he tells her she has called at the wrong time, and then he hangs up. Erika tells the family gathering that she must have interrupted something between Damian and Fer. Franco looks uncomfortable.

Bar calls to Gonzo and tells him she has something to show him. She shows him a copy of what she just received from Obregon. He is so happy that Lili is alive that he begins to cry. Damian calls Bar and orders her to see him asap. He is not interested in Lili. He tells her that Fer has run off with Santiago. If she doesn’t come, he’s going to do something really bad. He’s going to start screaming all sorts of things from the windows. Bar tells Gonzo that Damian is in pain. She also tells Gonzo that this nightmare is about to end. Gonzo thanks Bar. A comment about her off-white 80’s dress: There are lots of ruffles all around the neck and down the front and on the long sleeves. It would make a good shroud.

At Jacinto’s place, Margarita tells Gardenia that Franco is going to marry Erika. Gardenia goes into shock.

Franco and Erika talk outside the hacienda. Erika says Fernanda will be so happy when she finds out the news. He is going through the motions of agreeing with her.

Santiago and Fer are arguing when Bar comes in. Santiago says that Bar knows exactly where Aurora went. She gives them her innocent act. He reminds her of the message she gave him. Bar continues her lie about the fulano (guy – fulana is a woman of ill repute) who came for Aurora. Bar claims that just because she’s their father’s wife, she never interferes in their lives. Bar says they have to find Aurora right away because she is in danger. But, now their father needs them at his side because Obregon sent a photo of Lili.

I guess Bar has put Damian on the back burner so to speak.

Avances: Jacinto tells Gardenia about the wedding and the plans are made. Gardenia says that Eduardo will not marry that old woman.

Someone who knows how, please post this for me. Thanks.

Labels: manana

I'm sorry, but I cannot post a recap. I have been ill. I am posting space for discussions.

As a matter of fact, I will not be able to continue recapping at this time. Are there any substitutes out there?

Labels: amor

Late posting tonight because of the futbol game between Mexico and Costa Rica, and what a game it was! Double overtime and Mexico finally won on the shoot-out. The goalie, hunkalicious Ochoa, blocked the shoot-out kick of the player who scored the one game-tying goal against Mexico. This means Mexico will play the U.S. in the final game this Sunday.

Consti wants Moni to work for her and she won't take no for an answer, she'll even pay double. She gushes that she needs someone she can trust just like Moni. Does Moni fall for this act? Moni wonders what the mummy is up to.

Over at the race track Rolando Klunder is trying to cut a deal (undercut is more like it) with Mau's sponsor Carmona. Mau shows up and wants to discuss it over coffee. Rolu challenges Mau to a race and Carmona says may the best driver win, his sponsorship that is.

Mau's family cheers from the bleachers while Xime's ex, the cute but common mechanic Tano, ribs her about Rolu using her to get to Mau.

Whoa, Aldo visits Estrella and ends up accusing her of doing the horizontal bop for money. She tells him he's a baby gossip, she slaps him, kicks him out and then she becomes very upset. I don't blame her a bit.

Now we have a montage where Beto's "dad" makes up for lost time, he teaches him to ride a bicycle, kick a ball, fight, and all those things he missed teaching him as a child. However, ominous music plays and some ne'er-do-wells in a white car follow them so our fears are confirmed that daddy is up to no good.

Back at the track it appears that Mau has won the super-slow car race, all the better to show off the Nextel product placement. Sponsor dude says tomorrow they will sign the contract. Mau, at last showing some business sense, comments that it will cost Carmona more now.

For some reason Xime decides to comfort the cranky Rolu. I don't get why she is so hot for him. Yes he is a complete babe but guess what, good-looking people are a dime a dozen. Tano is also irritated.

Over at Sermeño group Ricardo plays Mr. Octopus with Paula. She pushes him away and warns him that the one thing she'll never forgive is if he puts the horns on her (cuckolds her). Moni, good friend that she is, butts in, makes an excuse to get rid of Pau, grabs Don Juan by the ear and gives him an earful of threats.

Hilario buys a bunch of groceries for Nieves, gains her sympathies and then tells her he has to leave. She decides to go with him and be the queen of the Caribbean before dragging him inside for his reward. Beto overhears and tells himself they're traitors, is he some dog that can be bought in December and abandoned in March?

He calls Moni to tell her he's destroyed and abandoned. He wants to come see her at work but she doesn't think that's a good idea. Beto complains, "Oh, so you, too, kick the skinniest dog in the ranch?" Moni agrees to see him but she'll meet him outside. (Tu tambien pateas al perro mas flaco del rancho?)

Ivan interrupts Luisa and Dani's tea party so he and can tell Luisa he hasn't been talking to her lately because of problems with his abue and Mauricio. The problem is he likes her. Big smile from Luisa.

Monstranzo treats her construction workers badly, so badly they decide to walk out. Xime tells her that people are like dogs, some have pedigrees and some don't but they are all still dogs.

Aldo sulks in his room. Surprisingly, Ivan escorts Estrella in to sort things out.

Moni waits outside Sermeño Group for Beto. Mau walks by and tries to chat but Beto arrives and announces Moni is his novia. Moni shuts Beto up by punching him in the gut accompanied by a weird sound effect that sounds like a branch or piece of wood snapping. The cogs and sprockets are creaking in that slow brain of his and Mau asks is this guy your bro or your boyfriend? Moni tries to get Mau to leave and punches Beto again and tells him to shut up. Mau is fed up with the lies, accuses Beto of beating women (hah!!) and splits. Beto demands to know what lies Mr. Doll Hair was telling.

Estrella apologizes for leaving her hand mark on his face. She tells Aldo she knows what people say about her but she promises they are lies. He gazes at her in a sexy and kind of confused way and she tells him he's not a boy, he really is a man. Aldo closes in for a kiss but, ahem!, they are interrupted by Teresa who stands firmly planted in the doorway.

Moni asks Beto what is he thinking by coming and bothering her at work. (Oh is that what she's doing? Working? Has anyone seen her work aside from serving cappuchino?) He's all wah my mommy's leaving me for the sun and piña coladas. Moni tells him to grow up and leads him off by the ear.

Teresa tells Aldo to show a modicum of modesty (recato) with his sisters in the house. And by the way someone is waiting for him in the living room. Oh good, it's Katia who is looking a lot like her sis because she makes a frowny face at Estrella.

I guess Moni led Beto all the way home because now Hilario and Nieves are inviting Beto and Moni to go to the Caribbean with them. Beto is happy again and suggests they all go to Las Vegas instead so Moni can fight. I spent this entire scene obsessing on Beto's shirt. At first I thought it said "Gay Right Movement" but no, I don't think that's right. Too bad my TV isn't bigger.

Back at Sermeño Group Mau asks Sal and Gabi "Do I have the face of an idiot?" Ooooh, that's a loaded question. Turns out he is fed up with all the lies. The two grownups try to figure out who the liar is and Mau finally announces he's tired of Monita's lies. He wants to know absolutely everything about her! Gabi has a plan.

Consti calls Mau and is in a dither because her business construction has hit some snags not to mention Ximena is sniffing the solvent and speaking incoherently (I think she means Xime's good advice). She thinks Mau should help her straighten things out and if he doesn't then her next call might be from the clinic! Xime drags over a muscular worker and gushes over his abs and biceps, this must be why people work, so they can look this good.

Aldo tells Katia that Estrella is his friend just like she is. Katia gets snobby and says that Estrella chica is not on the same level as herself. Aldo says wrong, she is on the same level as you and your sis...well, your sis no. She gets pissed at him, pushes him and splits. I take this as a good sign that she is definitely interested in him now that she has some competition.

Sal introduces a dapper chap, Arnoldo Pantus, who is a PI. Mau gives him his instruction to find out absolutely everything about his secretary, but in case he is discovered she is not to know Mau is involved. Arnoldo assures Mau there is only a one percent chance of her discovering she's being monitored. Uh oh.

Moni finally strolls back into the office and Gabi rightly gives her a hard time for disappearing, she always seems to be having an emergency. Sal escorts Arnoldo out and stupidly introduces him to Moni. Mau drags Moni into his office to talk. He demands the entire truth! Is Beto your bro or your boyfriend? After a moment of silently telling herself to tell the truth the devil on her shoulder wins and lies spill out of her mouth. He tells Sal he's so intrigued by the little liar he's prepared to pay the PI double.

Back in the barrio Beto happily makes plans to travel. Nieves is worried about where Hilario got all his money but Hilario coos and snow melts.

The PI shows up to the barrio in a way-too-clean Chivas jersey and makes friends with a neighbor.

The wicked witch of a social worker visits the Mau house to check on the kids. Teresa tells Ivan to call Mau, rapido!

Sinister music plays while Hilario sneaks out of Nieves' house, unlocks Moni's door (I think), sneaks into her apartment and hides his suitcase full of money under the bed.

Consti continues her constant whining but Mau is too busy to drop everything and run to her aid. She complains to Xime that nobody cares about her but they're not going to beat her. Everyone will see she she's going to win and Xime is going to help her. I say if she would quit whinging and get her skinny butt to work she might actually accomplish something.

Gabi relays the message to Mau that the wicked witch is over at his house. What else could possibly go wrong with his day?

Arnoldo hangs out in the neighborhood courtyard looking out of place and getting suspiciously eyeballed by the neighbors. Estrella shows up and he introduces himself as just a guy and by the way is she Monita? He heard that a cute girl named Monita and her brother and attractive mother all live there. I don't think our Estrella is fooled by this horrible PI, do you? Moni happens to call and Estrella immediately tips her off. Moni tells her to keep the stranger occupied while she flies on over. Yet another emergency, Gabi will be pleased I'm sure.

Wicked witch scares the kids by trying to get them to tell her bad things about Mauricio. Mau has arrived and eavesdrops. Aldo tells her there is no bad. Dani puts her two pesos in and says there is one very bad thing about Mau. WW hungrily waits for the dirt. Dani says Mau is with the monster and they prefer that he be with the monkey because the monkey is much nicer to them. Aldo tearfully says basically Mau is great and without him they would be separated or in the street. With Mau they are a family without fear. Mau, also crying, strides in and hugs the kids.

Tomorrow: Bad guys threaten Beto and his mother. Moni tells Mau she got a better offer, she's working for his novia. It looks like Costeño and Beto are the security for Consti's new lingerie store.

Labels: gancho

Would You Like to See the Captions on Internet-Based Broadcasts, Like Univision website Video Clips?

If you are a Closed Caption user, as many here on C2 are, I have compiled information below about a new bill in Congress right now that will increase the captions on the internet broadcasts we watch. I apologize for any redundancies and unclear information—I didn’t write the items but compiled them from about three sources, which I cite for clarity. The main issue here is that people with disabilities cannot access some aspects of the internet currently—captions for individuals who are deaf or hard of hearing in particular, and audio description for individuals with visual impairments. You can help change that!

What I take all this information below to mean is that commercial items on the internet would have to be captioned (like anything the commercial television networks put on the internet, which I can't get because I use Mac, but so be it). I don’t know if it means what typical consumers post, such as on youtube, because it's not clear. The general idea is, though, if the program was broadcast with captions on television then the same captions must be available when you view the program on the internet. For those of us who use the captions to understand better, this would be a great help!

Also, note that there are clauses in the bill that say “English language programs” that have been previously broadcast with captions must be delivered the same way on the internet. I think it does not clarify Spanish programming, though I haven’t read through the entire bill. Remember that the FCC has given a grace period for Spanish language programming in the US, since that is a newer format from the FCC caption law perspective. So, if you write your Congressional delegation members, urge them to adopt the bill both for English language and Spanish language programming.

The following information is from Jamie Berke and Robert Goodwin, who are deaf activists supporting the bill for deaf consumers. More information from other sources follows theirs. My DEEP apologies for not knowing how to make hyperlinks, so you’ll have to cut and paste to access the websites until I can consult with a fellow recapper who does it all the time and I’ll fix them this weekend.

HR3101 Captioning Bill

The 21st Century Communications and Video Accessibility Act was introduced in Congress on June 26, 2009. This Act, among other things, will require captioning on the Internet, and video description on the Internet for the blind and visually impaired. We need help to get this bill passed because it is not easy to get a bill through Congress!

Here is what I suggest: perhaps post this to your announcement wall or board(s) where clients meet for job searches and/or classes as well as newsletters and websites. They can use https://writerep.house.gov/writerep/welcome.shtml to contact Representatives. We also need a similar bill introduced in the Senate, so use http://www.senate.gov/general/contact_information/senators_cfm.cfm to contact Senators. Representatives should be asked to cosponsor the bill, and Senators should be asked to introduce a similar bill.

In addition, because in numbers there is strength, in addition to telling your clients about the bill and encouraging them to write their Representatives and Senators, you can also tell them about Caption Action 2, a grassroots Facebook effort to get this bill passed. Caption Action 2 is at http://www.causes.com/captionaction2 . We also have a blog, http://captionaction2.blogspot.com/ , where you can download a PDF of the bill and see a countdown counter showing how much time we have left. In addition, the Coalition of Organizations for Accessible Technology (COAT, at http://www.coataccess.org) is working hard to get the bill passed. In fact, we only have until January 2011 to get this bill passed. After that, this bill will die.

We really need help. Most bills do not make it out of committee, and last year that is what happened to a similar bill. This year we have a second chance, and we might not get a third chance.

Thank you, in advance, for your help! This bill is really to guarantee the deaf and blind kids an accessible future on the Internet!

Jamie Berke and Robert Goodwin
Leaders, Caption Action 2

Schoolmarm Jeanne back again. Here is additional information from a couple of more websites:

Washington Watch says that “H.R. 3101 would ensure that individuals with disabilities have access to emerging Internet Protocol-based communication and video programming technologies in the 21st Century. “ The website is:

http://www.washingtonwatch.com/bills/show/111_HR_3101.html

From “Day in Washington,” there is a summary of what the bill is supposed to do:

http://dayinwashington.com/?p=290

There has been significant legislation and regulation in the past to address access issues for people with disabilities to communications systems such as the telephone and television. Specifically, Section 255 of the Communications Act (47 U.S.C. §225) requires telecommunications providers and manufacturers to make their services and equipment accessible to and usable by people with disabilities if readily achievable. And Section 713 of the Communications Act (47 U.S.C. §613) which requires that video programming distributors provide closed captioning on 100 percent of new English video programming.

The problem? Today, there are web-based video services that offer television programs, movies, and web clips distributed over the Internet, but most of them do not provide closed captioning, even when the programming previously was captioned. In addition, cell phones and other mobile devices are being used more and more for communication and even entertainment. The legislation that offered protections for people with disabilities to ensure access does not cover new technologies. VoiIP and IP-based technologies are not always defined as being a telecommunications service. What that means is that they don’t fall under the access requirements in the Communications Act, and so would not be required to provide closed captions or video description.

Let me give you an example of how the law is out-of-date…the telephone. Federal law requires phones over the regular public telephone network to be hearing aid compatible. But, it is not clear whether this requirement carries over to smart phones used for communication over the Internet

So what does the bill do:

1. H.R. 3101 would require that mobile and other Internet-based telecommunications devices have accessible user interfaces, and offer people with disabilities use of a full range of text messaging and other popular services that are currently largely inaccessible;

2. Restore the Federal Communications Commission’s (FCC’s) modest video description rules and grant them the authority to expand such regulations, and require emergency announcements and similar information to be accessible to people with disabilities through audible presentation of on-screen alerts,

4. Ensure that video programming offered via the Internet will be described, and call for all devices that receive and playback video programming to employ accessible user interfaces and allow ready access to description; and

5. Strengthen consumers’ ability to enforce their rights to Communications and video accessibility through the establishment of a clearinghouse of information about service and equipment accessibility and usability, a meaningful FCC complaint process that holds industry accountable for their accessibility obligations, and judicial review of FCC action to ensure the Commission’s own accountability.

In this new era of electronic and internet-based communications, it is critical that the disability access requirements in telecommunications legislation continue to actually impact what communications systems people are actually using. All you have to do is look around a hearing room to see how prevalent mobile and web-based technology is. It is visible on buses and trains, in stores and on the streets; people are constantly using hand-held electronic devices to communicate, to access information, to interact with others and to engage in the larger world around them. The Twenty-First Century Communications and Video Accessibility Act offers the best opportunity to expand current law and requirements to allow that same access for people with disabilities as we move to a much more digital, and mobile future.

(End of quoted material)

Schoolmarm Jeanne back for the last time. You can make a difference by writing to your Congressional delegation members and urging them to vote in favor of this access bill. It will help us, but it will help deaf and hard of hearing people, blind people and people with low vision, more than it will even help us! Thanks for taking the time to read this!

Jeanne

p.s. I watch a couple of TNs but rarely have time to check in with the blog, ¡discúlpenme, mis queridos/as amigos/as!

Labels: announcements

Enter Hilario, (now with a name like that we are sure to have some kind of crack up but I predict more GFN stuff that will show us mooch is indeed a genetic trait) who wants to stay with his little snow of lime despite having left her 20 no 30 years ago. For some reason she just takes him right in.

Ricki is showing Paula how much he likes her. She feels like she’s with an Octopus. He feels like he’s with a police sergeant. Oh poor baby. He just can’t help himself with her. Yeah, that’s what they all say….anyway….she tells him they have to work tomorrow and call her there but disguise your voice so what’s her face doesn’t know who you are. He says he only hears that she wants him to call. The whole while Estrella is staring on angry and dismayed all at once.

Mau after reading the cuenta de hada comes back to find a sleeping Coni, so what does he do? Pick up the cell phone to call Moni. She is with Beto who apparently fell asleep in her room and she can’t get him to wake up. Of course he wakes up when she’s on the phone with Mau who hears him and wonders if she is with her beau. She manages not to answer that question and tells Beto as he sloughs off that she’s talking to Estrella. She promises Mau she’ll be back at work but only because she needs the money.

Mau tells Coni he was talking to Sal. He goes to the kitchen for a glass of water and Ricardo wants to pick his brain about going with one girl but wanting it all with another. Mau says he’s not the one to talk to about these things something similar happens to him and he doesn’t know what to do. Ric decides he’ll go for the one he really likes and Mau says well, if you can, then go for it, because he can’t. He doesn’t want to hurt someone who doesn’t deserve it and the other woman is already with someone.

Xime chases down Rolu at a club. he's with another chica, but this doesn't stop our Xime she introduces herself and wonders why he doesn't do the same. She asks for him back and he says she's crazy. She just needs a drink and screams for a waiter. Eventually she takes the other girl's drink. She goes to sit down and bam he actually kicks the chair out from under her and makes her fall to the floor. Now that is NOT nice at all.

The next morning Beto is thinking he might like tripe for breakfast and he goes to check (get her to make it) on his Mom who, surprise, is with his Dad. Only he thinks this is some fulano that she just picked up off the street and he starts hurling devil’s tongue words of condemnation at her. She tells him he better hold his tounge to his Mama, and Pa wakes up asking if this is their son. Doh!

Over at the svelte house the icy branch of the Sermeno clan is having an artisan’s designed breakfast and Xime is crying about Rolu’s treatment of her. Coni yells at Jero to console his sister. He says ok, and tells her to shut her face because she’s ruining breakfast for the whole world. Coni also attempts to consle Ximensa whom she says can sometime be a bit difficult. Xime continues yelling she needs to get Rolu back. Jero continues with the love, that she she isn’t going to get anyone back with that emu face of hers and suggests she go to the bathroom and fix herself up, talk to herself, and do her self-esteem exercises.

OK, while I loved the concept of this idea of emu, Debbie enlighted me that what we heard was an o not a u which makes more sense in that he was comparing her face to an emo kid...I still think it's funnier to compare her to an emu... :)

Coni agrees she’ll feel better. Jero teases he’ll go bug her after she leaves but Coni begs him off and he wonders since when she turned good. She says she’s going to be good now so Mau will return to her. Jero reminds her that until Mona is gone, she’ll never have Mau to herself.


After the break we come back to Beto freaking about about this stranger being all of a sudden so close to his Ma. He learns about the little endearments and wonders since when he never saw this guy before. He runs off and they try to recover 30 years of abstinence, well from each other at least.

Pau is chatting with Moni about how happy she is over her time with Ric. Mau comes in and asks for his cappucino and Pau says right back at you that you are smitten too, and he broke up with his chic because he wants you but if you don‘t get rid of Beto you won‘t get him.

In the barrio Ric is chatting up Estrella who appears to be playing along. She agrees to meet him later in a couple hours after she fixes herself up.

At the office Coni presumes Mau is in his office and just walks in. Gabi wonders if she thinks this is an extension of her own house. Xime seeks advice from Gabi who has had experience. She rambles on about her vision for the future of marrying and having kids and then becoming widowed and living off her inheritance with someone who helps her through her pain. Gabo agrees she’s mal in the cabeza. She tells her that Rolu is worthless and used her and she shouldn’t give him the time of day. Xime is confused. She overhears Mau talking to Sal about meeting with a sponsor for his racing car and decides what she can do.

Estrella is telling Moni about her encuentro with Ric and how she feels bad about Pau but she couldn’t help herself. Mona gives her lickings and tells her she better not mess with him, friends don‘t ride the same bike. Estre hangs up and decides, yep, she’ll tell him where to stuff IT.

Nieves is singing “Si los Dejan” and floating around in the courtyard when Aldo shows up looking for Estre. Nieves tells him a minute earlier and he would have crossed paths with her. She’s gone but not sure when she’ll come back. She advises his as someone who could be his G-ma that he ought look for a girl his age and not mess with someone so weathered as Estrella, you know what I mean. Of course he doesn’t. She tries to explain that Estrella devotes herself to the “oldest profession” around. HE thinks acting, but she says no, prostitute, (meretriz) something very different. Aldo is impactado. This is going to be fun. I know it’s not right, but I’m actually routing for these two… :)

Moni goes to deliver Mau’s cappuccino and finds him with Monsti who tells her just leave it there, oh, and congratulate us because we are back together. I have the same dress Coni is wearing…

When we come back from the break Moni says congrats and Coni extols the virtues of why they are back together. Moni runs out of the office screaming he doesn’t want me…

Estrella blasts Ricardo a new one until he grabs her and locks her in a suck fest. Shortly she stops fighting.

Aldo and Ivan discuss the likelihood of Estrella really being “that kind of women”. Ivan thinks it might not be so bad for him because she wouldn’t look at a little kid like him, but if he gives her some money well she’ll surely make him a man. Aldo gets pissed off at him and Ivan wonders if he’s in love with her, he admits he is, so what. All Ivan can say is Chale….

Beto runs up crying to Mona as she is crying too. He cries about how is life is a lie and his Ma is cualquiera and he’s crushed. She doesn’t understand but he wonders how she would feel if she found her Ma and Pa shtupping in the bed. Univ. censored this, I don’t know why, because in the original he actually says they were “en pelotas” meaning stark naked, so I guess that’s a bad word here in the good old land of the “free.” Anyway….the next thing we know, the kids are coming up to the courtyard and come upon said Ma and Pa making out.

Outside Ric keeps asking Estre if she had a good time and she says yes now shut up because you keep asking me and that just shows how immature and insecure you are. He says it’s just that between all the kisses and caresses she seems preoccupied. Yeah of course, she’s betraying one of her best friends and she doesn’t like it and it’s part his fault because he convinced her. He agrees to break up with Pau then, but not tell her they were together this afternoon. She says fine no more lovey dovey until he’s broken up with her. Just then “her” comes walking up from the corner. They duck behind a car and Estre worries they were seen. Ric swears he’ll leave her tonight and makes him leave.

Nieves wants to introduce Mona but Beto says no way this is my dad, a Dad shows a kid how to swim and kick a penalty, and ride a bike and be around for Christmas and the day of Kings and so forth and where the hell were you? Ma tries to shut him up but Pa says he can let it all out that’s ok. Beto says hell yeah, and anyway I’m leaving. Mona tells them to take advantage of him being gone.


Xime shows up at Rolu’s apartment and tries again to get him to be back with her. He’s with another chic and still isn’t interested. HE tells her to stop following him or he’ll have to file for a restraining order. She says what if I tell you I know about a meeting for sponsorhip that Mau is going to have, will you get back with me then. He finally says alright, and pays the other girl he’s with to leave and go party or buy something for her self. Nice. He turns around and says fine now tell me. Xime says kiss me first. Oh boy, here we go…I can’t believe she all of a sudden gets so desperate.

Estre tells Mona that she messed around with Ricardo and she feels really bad, but the flesh is weak. She says she told him though that he’ll get nothing more if he doesn’t break it off with Pau. Mona says that doesn’t really help out your friend. Sure enough Pau comes out announcing she dreamt about marrying Ricardo and having kids and so forth. Estrella wanders off crying, knowing there is no good way out of this.

Mona consoles Beto about the Ma and Pa situation and that at least he has a Pa, she doesn’t even have that. He thinks it’s gross that guy touched his Ma. Mona wonders we he thinks he came from, a little piece of broccoli? Just then Nieves shows up and Beto turns all my ma can’t wear anything lacy. She asks him to stop this and try to give his part. He says he’ll give a part, his boot on the guy's rear.

Mona tells Nieves to do something but she thinks Hilario won’t take it badly and wonders how she looks.

Beto all fired up goes over to see his Pa but his eyes widen when he sees Pa counting several 100 dollar bills (with the door open, I think not). Meanwhile Nieves chats with Mona and confesses that she’s not so good with math and dates and well she’s not sure if Hilario is his Pa. Moni freaks out but Nieves retracts saying oh well of course it has to be his Pa. Heh, maybe she is a cualquiera after all. :)

Beto and Pa then go out of the room singing together and say they are going off to get back lost time. This will be interesting.

At the track, Mau is showing the kids the car when Tano runs up and tells him that Rolu is with Mau's sponsor and they are taking the sponsorship back.

At the office Coni wants to make up with Moni. She tells her she’s done awful things, but wants it to be better and well, despite her defects, well everyone’s defects, she’s worth something and Coni wants Mona to work for her and won’t take no for an answer. Oh yeah, this is going to be good. Straight to the devil’s lair…

Labels: gancho

EPISODE #111:

* Lili wanders through the hallway and into Don Artemio Bravo's office. She wanders over to the window as Don Artemio and his warrior assistant enter. Don Artemio sends the warrior out of the office. He calls Lili by name twice. She turns and is shocked as she stares at him and the floor and walks over to the other side of the room. AB notes how she looks like her mother. He takes out an envelope and rifles through the photos. He finds Montserrat's photo and notes that Lili has her mother's eyes. Lili continues to stare at AB. AB tells her he thinks she's wondering where she is and who he is. She only says she's thirsty.

* Camilo meets with Lovely at his bachelor pad. They have some wine and discuss their relationship and her uncle Steve. Franco's phone call interrupts. He tells Camilo that Steve has agreed to meet with him at Las Animas tonight. Camilo asks if Lovely can come too. Franco tells him no -- this meeting is just between Steve and Camilo alone.

* Tomasa puts a tray with a pitcher and glass of lemonade on the desk and leaves Santi in his studio. Santi sits and ponders Camilo's threat about him leaving Aurora alone and her becoming bored with him. Then he ponders and remembers how in love he and Aurora are (they made love). Santi picks up his painting tools and assures himself that Aurora does love him.

* Female associate brings a tray with water to the office. Lili grabs the glass of water and gulps it down. AB returns. She backs away as he tries to get close to her. He tells her that she'll be there for a long while.

* Damian and Fey argue about her having to leave with Jacinto on an important errand instead of staying by his side 24/7. He's frustrated - she kisses his forehead and says that Tomasa will be available to help him. She leaves.

* As AB starts to make a phone call, Lili looks like she wants to make a break for it but instead sees Ciro the friendly ghost appear near the doorway and smile at her.

* Barbie meets with Rosenda in the witch's apartment. Barbie answers her cell - it's AB to tell her that Lili is safe and sound with him. Barbie is so excited she can't wait to leave and run right over. Barbie tries to contain her glee in front of Rosenda, who offers her some insincere congratulations.

* At Las Animas, Franco meets with Fey in the office. He informs her about Obregon's call to her father and the ranson he is asking for. Fey can't believe it and thinks it may be a trap. Franco agrees with her but they have no other option but to go along with it for now and be patient. Just then Steve enters and interrupts. Steve brings in the pink envelope that Erika gave him for Franco and says that it's an invitation for Franco to join Erika and her parents for dinner tonight (about the engagement). Steve then reminds Franco about another matter as Franco is in a hurry to rush Steve out of the room.

* Rosenda tells Barbie two important things - The first thing Rosenda told Barbara was that Aurora had been there earlier asking for Rosenda's help. Barbie doesn't really care about the first one at the moment. Then Rosinda tells Barbie about what Aurora said of the handkerchief of Rebeca Sanchez -- she says the Aurora confessed to her that the handkerchief was Aurora's only memory of her mother. Barbie about hyperventilates and has a stroke. (WHOA!)

* Damian yells at Tomasa to leave him alone. She scurries away and closes the door behind her. He then makes a mysterious phone call.

* Vladimir surprises Priscilla (su gordita) with a bouquet of red roses in the parking garage. Priscilla really wants him to leave her alone but he refuses. She reluctantly lets him put them in the back seat. She wants him to let her leave alone - he insists on her going to his apartment for a surprise. She reluctantly agrees. He pops into the back seat and she has to make him duck down low so the ladies walking in the garage don't see them together as she drives away.

* Rosie walks Barbie, who is still hyperventilating and having an asthma attack, to a chair in the other room. Barbie wants to know everything Aurora told her about Rebeca Sanchez. Rosie says Aurora didn't say too much, just that the handkerchief was her only clue to use to try and find her mother but it's lost and the only thing she knows is that her mom is dead and her mom's soul is in 'limbo'. Barbie is really distraught now.

* Aurora meets with Madre Superior at the convent school office. Aurora begs for help.

* In the office, Steve pour coffee as Fey tells Franco about Damian's recovery. Franco answers his cell phone -- low and behold it's Damian wanting to speak with his wife. Franco obliges and hands the cell phone to Fey. Franco quietly walks out of the office.

* Priscilla is in a hurry at the apartment. Vladimir insists on putting a blindfold on Priscilla for the surprise. She obliges.

* Fey starts to argue with Damian over the phone when she sees Steve is still in the room. Steve quickly departs. Fey and Damian then argue loudly over the phone - he demands to know what she's doing with Franco. She says it's about the community center project.

* Franco stands and stares out the window - he's frustrated.

* Vladimir brings Priscilla into the room he decorated up as a precious nursery. He takes off the blindfold. Priscilla is stunned and silent as she takes it all in. Vladimir plays a music box and asks if she likes the surprise. She stays impactado and silent. He confesses to her how much he loves and wants to be there for her and their baby. That's when Priscilla snaps. She throws a music box at him and it hits the wall and yells and screams that her baby is Anibal's! Only Anibal's! Leave her alone! She hates him and never wants to see him again. She stomps out. He kneels on the floor, crying like a big baby.

* Fey finds Steve in the living room. She wonders where Franco is - she wants to thank him for his help and support. Steve says he had to leave. Steve hands Fey a check for the center; then says that Franco left to take care of something before his dinner with Erika.

* In the dining room, Erika and Dolly are cleaning silverware and talking about Franco; Erika mentions the mystery woman that Franco is trying to get over.

* Aurora cries to Madre Superior and asks that she be able to live there at the convent with the nuns.

* Barbie and Rosenda make a pact - that if Aurora should return, Rosie is to do everything to keep her there and not tell anyone but Barbie. Barbie answers her cell phone - it's AB wondering where she is. Barbie, the robot, says she's on her way.

* Aurora continue to talk and beg Madre for shelter and protection at the convent school. Madre wants to know what's wrong? Aurora won't reveal anything.

* Fey returns home. Santi meets her in the front hall. She tells him about her meeting with Franco; about the phone call from Obregon and the ranson demand. Santi is shocked; then tells his sister how worried he is about Aurora's disappearance. They go upstairs.

* Fey finds Damian all dressed up in a suit and tie, sitting on the end of the bed with a table set up for a romantic evening - champagne and everything. She's stunned speechless. He tells her he thinks it's time for them to have their long-awaited wedding night tonight.

* AB is seated at his desk and tells the speaker phone to send someone in. Barbie waltzes into the office and stares at AB. AB signals with his fingers for her to follow him. They enter the bedroom and find Lili napping on the little love seat. Barbie shows AB the newspaper and says they need a photo of Lili with today's paper to "prove" to the Elizaldes that Obregon has Lili. AB says 'go ahead and do it.'

* Gonzo is on the phone grumbling about how worried he is over Lili's kidnapping.

* Barbie shouts at Lili to wake up. She sits up with a start - Barbie snaps the photo. Lili looks around in a daze. Barbie and AB talk about showing the photo to Gonzo as they leave the room.

* In the office, Barbie and AB argue over her baby again - she is adamant that her daughter is still alive. He is adamant that her son died at childbirth.

* Fey sits on the bed as Damian pours them glasses of champagne. He hands her one glass. She looks at him surprised, stunned and is concerned that the alcohol may interfere with his treatment and recovery. He chug-a-lugs the champagne down in one gulp and proudly proclaims that he is fine and dandy, nothing to worry about.

* Franco sits down to dinner with Erika and her parents.

* Damian toasts his marriage with Fey. She stares at him as he goes on and on about 'their love becoming a reality'. He chugs another glass of champagne -- she still hasn't touched her first glass. He says they are married and kisses her hand. He wants them to make love. She's uneasy and uncomfortable. He leans in for a kiss.

* Camilo arrives at Las Animas. Gardenia lets him inside. Camilo goes to the living room as Steve whispers to Gardenia the plan for the evening. Gardenia leaves. Steve joins Camilo in the living room. As Steve brings Camilo his whiskey on the rocks, he starts the discussion about Camilo's intentions regarding his niece Lovely Norton.

* Dolly informs Franco that when Gonzo sent Fey to school in Spain, they sent Erika to Spain also. Franco smiles at the fun story about the BFFs studying in Spain. Dolly and Agustin (Erika's parents) ask about Franco's family - Franco says he doesn't have any siblings. Agustin (Erika's dad) then says that he has an important question to ask Franco.

ADVANCE: Fey is "torn between two lovers, acting like a fool". Meanwhile, Franco solidifies his plan to marry Erika.

Labels: manana

Paloma is talking to Inaki on her cell phone and Carlota walks in. Carlota asks her who she is calling "mi amor" to on the phone. She grabs the phone, throws it down and stomps on it. Carlota asks her again who she is talking too. Carlota can't believe she's talking on the phone while her aunt is sick. Paloma tells her that she was calling a friend to tell her that she was not able to go out to eat. Paloma also tells her the reason she has a phone is so that she can talk in private. Carlota asks her who gave her the phone. She tells her that she bought it herself. Carlota doesn't believe her and Paloma tells her that she has a right to her secrets just like everyone else in this house does. And yells at Carlota that is the one thing that she has learned living in this house. Carlota slaps her. "How dare you talk to me that way?" You are punished and you cannot leave this room. Paloma yells you can't do that. I want to take care of my aunt. Carlota tells her that her aunt needs peace and quiet. And of course she can lock her in her room and shows her the keys. Carlota walks out and locks Paloma in. Rufi runs up to see what the commotion is and Carlota tells her none of her business and not to let Paloma out or she can leave the house. Carlota leaves to make Macarena some tea and Rufi asks Paloma if she is okay. Paloma begs Rufi to let her out, but Rufi tells her that she doesn't have the keys and her aunt will not give it to her. Paloma asks how her aunt is. Rufi tells her that she's okay. Paloma asks her to tell Inaki that she cannot come, but Rufi is afraid that Carlota will catch her. Paloma tells her that Carlota broke her cell phone and she has no way of telling Inaki that she is not coming tonight.

Romina is calling Paloma on her cell phone, but she tells her mom that she is not answering. Camila offers to call Macarena.

Carlota questions Macarena if she bought Paloma the cell phone. Macarena asks her what she is talking about. Carlota says you know what I am talking about. The phone rings and Carlota goes to answer it. Camila asks to talk to Macarena. Carlota tells her that she is sick and then Camila asks to talk to Paloma. You can't responds Carlota and hangs up the phone. The doorbell rings and it's Rufi who tells Camila and Romina that Carlota broke Paloma's phone. Paloma cannot go tonight because Carlota locked her in her room. Romina gets pissed. Rufi asks Romina to tell Inaki that Paloma cannot come.

Paloma looks out the window and Romina is outside asking her what's up. Paloma asks Romina to tell Inaki that she cares for him. And also to forgive her, she really wanted to be there tonight. She looks at a photo of them and says that she really wanted to see him tonight. And after this, she knows that she will lose him.

Rafael comes home and Diana says finally you are home. He asks her what's wrong honey. She says don't call me honey after what you did today. What did I do questions Rafael? Did you send Camila flowers asks Diana? Rafael tells her after all that Camila did, it was the least I could do. Why didn't you tell me that she was helping you or that you were going to send her flowers questions Diana? Because you don't care about anything regarding the factory. I have asked you for your opinions and advice, but you don't care. So don't get onto me for seeking it somewhere else.

Inaki tries to call Paloma, but she is not answering. He tells Emiliano that Paloma is the one for him. She is different. Romina comes in and Inaki asks her where Paloma and his Tia Macarena are. She tells Inaki to look for another girlfriend, because with her evil Tia it just isn't going to work.

The doctor has come to see to Macarena and tells her that her blood sugar was up. Macarena says, but I have been taking my medication. He tells her to give it more time for her body to adjust. Carlota goes to see him out. Macarena tells Rufi to tell Paloma to come see her. She feels bad for ruining her night. Rufi says she cannot come, because Carlota punished her. Macarena wants to go see Paloma, but Rufi tells her that Carlota locked her in her room.

Carlota tells the doctor that she is really worried about her sister. He comments on how caring she is. She smiles at his praise, but frowns when he says that it is his pleasure to serve her. But more importantly her sister. Carlota sees him to the door.

Macarena comes into Paloma's room. What happened asks Macarena. Paloma tells her that Carlota found her talking on the cell phone to Inaki, broke her phone, slapped her and locked her in her room. Carlota comes in having overheard there conversation since they do not know how to close the door. Anyway Carlota says she'll do it again if she is disrespectful again. Carlota tells Macarena that they need to have a serious conversation.

Inaki asks Romina if her aunt is crazy. Romina says of course and will be until the day she dies. I don't know how Paloma can live with that witch. If it were me, I would tell her where to go. Emiliano says how can you say that? She has lived this way all her life. She is a minor still in school. She has no one else. Inaki says he cannot just stand there with his arms cross. German walks up with Liliana. Romina asks him what he is doing here with her.

Carlota gets onto Macarena and Paloma regarding the cell phone. They both know that cell phones are prohibited in the house. And Paloma has not only lied to me, but has also disrespected me. And you know that I will not allow that. Macarena tells Carlota that it does not give her the right to break her cell phone or hit her. Are you defending her questions Carlota? Yes replies Macarena. So you want her to teach her to lie? To let her be like one of those loose women that both you and I know asks Carlota. Paloma yells out that Macarena only wants the best for her. Carlota tells her to be quiet. Macarena tells Carlota that Paloma has the right to live. To get to know boys and have friends. To have fun. Carlota tells her that can happen when Paloma is an adult. Right now she needs guidance and direction. Paloma tells Carlota that she will be legally an adult soon and can do what she wants. And that's no sin. Carlota responds back saying when you prove you are an adult then we'll talk. But in the meantime you must obey the rules. Macarena yells out your rules and rules that we are not in agreement with. Carlota says I take care of this house. Here you have food and a roof over your heads. All this with the money my father left me. You both should be glad for all the things I have done for you. You are ungrateful. She pretends to choke up with tears and tells Macarena to go to her room to rest.

Inaki tells Emiliano that he wants to see Paloma. Emiliano thinks he can get her into more trouble, but German agrees with Inaki. When you care about someone, sometimes you make dumb decisions (looking at Romina while saying this).

Romina asks what she did to come with German. Liliana tells her that German called her. He is so handsome and I have always liked him. Romina tells her not to get to excited, because he must have had other plans and they fell through. He's really not that into her. Liliana tells her not to be jealous. Men also like her and acknowledge her. She's not the only one. German walks up and starts caressing Liliana's cheek. Romina gets up and silently tells German to follow her.

In the bathroom Romina questions German as to why he brought Liliana. He tells her it's none of her business. Romina says you brought her because you knew I could not stand her and wouldn't introduce you to anyone. German finally accepts that she is novios with Emiliano and he has to look elsewhere. Anyway I really like her. More than me questions Romina. Maybe replies German. Romina tells him fine, go out with her. Compare her to me. And then you will realize that he will not be able to forget her that easily. You will repent and accept the offer I gave you. And do you know why? Because no one can kiss you like I can. And she proceeds to show him. German tells her that she is driving him crazy and they get interrupted by a knock on the bathroom door.

Camila sits on her bed looking at a photo of her and her ex-husband. We get a flashback to there wedding night. She tears up the picture and starts crying.

Paloma is in bed crying. Carlota is in bed reading and hears dogs barking. Inaki is climbing up to Paloma's balcony. He knocks loudly on the door and Paloma gets up to answer it. She tells him to forgive her. He tells her he cares for her and she does the same. He kisses her. Paloma hears her aunt coming and comes back inside. Carlota walks in and turns on the light. Paloma has a guilty look on her face.

Carlota asks Paloma what's wrong? Paloma tells her that a dog was barking. Emiliano, Romina, German and Liliana drive up and see Inaki dangling from the balcony. Carlota asks Paloma if she is sure that a dog was bothering her. Yes replies Paloma. Paloma tells Carlota that she wants peace. Carlota tells her that she has always been a difficult child to control and because of her parents are dead. And I don't want my sister to suffer the same fate because of you. Paloma says if I am rebellious it is because you don't understand me. I just want to live a normal life just like girls my age. But you don't let me do anything. Carlota says all you want to do is run. But that comes with consequences. Girls today are very free and the boys only want them to pass the time. But the real men look for decent girls to marry. Because I want to have some fun and be with my friends doesn't mean that I will allow that to happen to me replies Paloma. That's because you have learned that from living here replies Carlota. Where there are rules. You have to be honest with me.

Outside the gang is helping Inaki down. Paloma goes out and tells Inaki that she cares for him. He throws her a kiss. The gang gets into the car and Carlota hears them in her room and walks to the window. She spots them all getting into the car.

Romina is not happy having to leave the bar early. Emiliano says that happens sometimes. Romina comments on how romantic Inaki was and wonders if he can do the same. Emiliano comments that Inaki is whipped. And after the way Paloma was raised for her to have such strong feeling for Inaki. There are many that care for her and that includes you replies Romina. And you asks Emiliano. Are you not happy that Inaki cares for Paloma? Yes, but not you. Emiliano asks her where she is getting at. I'm just telling you not to lay eyes on her or anyone else. Because I am capable of killing you.

Diana threatens Rafael that if he sends Camila flowers or any woman again, he will lose her. Rafael says get over it. They argue and he leaves to go sleep in the living room.

German walks Liliana to her door. Liliana comments that Romina wants to be with him. German says that Romina does not want anything with him because she is Emiliano's girlfriend and I am his friend is that clear? Fine says Liliana. Do you like me? German says he likes her and they kiss.

Rufi tries to get Macarena to eat breakfast. Macarena tells Rufi that she could not sleep last night because of the dog barking and noises outside. Rufi tells her all that happen last night. Macarena tells Rufi that she thinks that Carlota knows of Inaki. She says Camila told her to tell the truth, but Rufi says it's better to keep quiet. When Paloma is of legal age and if they are still together then tell Carlota.

Paloma starts to write a letter to Inaki. Sweet music plays.

Inaki tells the maid that his mother will be coming today. And to prepare a fabulous meal. The maid asks if his mother's boyfriend is coming, but he doesn't know. He leaves and she picks up the phone to call Carlota.

Carlota comes in Paloma's room. She tells her that she will not lock her in, but she is punished and cannot leave the house. Only for church on Sunday. Paloma finishes her letter to Inaki.

Macarena tells Paloma that Rufi told her everything that happened last night with Inaki. Rufi says that it was so romantic. I couldn't help myself. I had to tell Macarena. Paloma asks Macarena if she is well enough to help her make cookies. Macarena says of course the cookies for your mother-in-law. Paloma asks Rufi if she can take the cookies to Inaki's house along with a letter.

Inaki greets his mother at the airport. She wants to know where his girlfriend is. He tells her he will explain on the way home. Just know that I am crazy in love. Although the relationship will not be easy, but I will fight for her. I want to be with her and no one will keep us apart.

Romina sees the destroyed tape of her parents wedding. Camila tells her there was no reason for her to keep it. Romina asks her why her dad left. Camila tells her she doesn't know. Romina says all I remember is you guys fighting. Perhaps if you were nicer. Camila asks her why she always blames her for the breakup. A relationship takes two. Romina says I wonder why he left and never came back. What did you do? Camila tells her to mind her own business. Romina tells her that she will never allow her husband to do that to her. Her husband will love her and her kids. Camila says I hope so. I want you to be happy.

Emiliano asks his dad Rafael why he's sleeping on the couch. Rafael says because I sent Camila flowers as a thank you for helping me. Emiliano says that shows that she cares for him. He doesn't want to talk about his problems with Diana with him. He is there son.

Macarena, Paloma and Rufi are baking cookies and having a food fight. Lots of laughter and Carlota hears this and comes into the kitchen. What is going on she asks. We are making cookies replies Macarena. You should be in bed says Carlota. You were very sick yesterday. And now you are throwing flour around and acting like a kid. You should be more responsible. The doctor told you to take care of yourself. She gets onto Paloma and wants them to clean up the mess. She walks out. The food fight and laughter continues. The maid calls Carlota and lets her know that Inaki's mother comes in today from Spain.

Inaki and his mom arrive at the house. Rufi comes up to him and introduces herself. She tells him that Paloma wanted her to bring him the cookies she made for his mother and also brought a letter from her. He asks her to wait so that he can give her a response back.

Paloma is waiting for Rufi's return and Carlota asks her what she is doing. Paloma says I thought I saw the doctor pull up, but I was wrong. Carlota says okay and walks away. Rufi comes in with a letter for Paloma. She starts to read it, but Carlota pulls it out of her hand. Carlota reads the letter out loud. "Mi amor. I do not care if I have to climb up to your window each night just so I can see you. You are the woman of my life." Carlota calls her disgraceful and says you have a secret love just like your mother. My mother asks Paloma. Yes. You are the same as her responds Carlota. Macarena yells at Carlota to shut up.


Tomorrow: Paloma asks Carlota what she meant by her comment regarding her mother.

Labels: amor